Hydroplane sporting environment and devices and methods therefor

ABSTRACT

A hydroplaning device for a rider to perform liquid sport athletic maneuvers, which comprises a support member having a height relative to the ground and a slope; a surface member disposed on the support member, wherein the surface member forms at least an angled surface and a catchment area. The device also comprises a liquid circulation system, having a liquid source, at least one feed line and at least one return line with the liquid source being in fluid communication with the at least one feed line and the at least one return line being in fluid communication with at least one of the liquid source and a disposal location. The device includes at least one liquid dispenser disposed adjacent to the support member or the surface member.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This nonprovisional application claims the benefit of ProvisionalApplication Nos. 60/931,554, 60/932,418, and 60/932,863 filed on May 23,2007, May 30, 2007 and Jun. 1, 2007 respectively, each of which areincorporated herein by reference in their respective entireties and towhich priority is claimed.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of Invention

The present invention is related to the field of extreme action sportsand more particularly hydroplaning water activity wherein a user orparticipant performs or executes extreme action sport maneuvers whileskimming on a liquid and the equipment used therein.

2. Description of Related Art

In the world of action or “extreme” sports, as featured in the Olympics,Winter X-Games, Summer X-Games, Gravity Games, Honda Ski Tour and ASTDew Action Sports Tour, athletes perform various tricks, stunts,maneuvers, and athletic abilities using various types of sportingequipment such as ramps, quarter pipes, half-pipes, boxes, jumps, rails,etc. The conventional environments for these action sports are performedon either dry surface area with wheeled sporting devices, in waterenvironments such as ocean or lakes on wakeboards or wake skates, or onski slopes in alpine skiing conditions with skis and snowboards.Conventional action or “extreme” sports lack the ability for users toperform action, big action, air, and substantially elevated airmaneuvers on a surface with a continuous hydroplaning environment, andthe equipment to perform these maneuvers. Further, conventional sports,devices and methods fail to provide equipment and an environment where auser can perform substantially elevated air and big air action sportskimming maneuvers on board and ski skimming devices wherein anartificial skimming surface is continuously provided, such as performedin skateboarding, snowboarding, and snow skiing big air, quarter pipe,half-pipe, and slope style activity. The present invention overcomesthese limitations and drawbacks.

Conventional devises that provide a liquid type environment or watersport environment do exist in the form of waterslides and water chutes.In these conventional devices, a user is sliding down a tube or rampdevice on their buttocks or on a riding device such as a mat, or aninflatable tube of some sort. With these conventional slides, the userslides down with the water pushing the user or the riding device downthe ramp or chute. These conventional water slide devices fail toprovide the proper substantially continuous hydroplane water environmentfor a user to perform action and big air maneuvers. Further, theseconventional water devices fail to provide appropriate equipmentenabling a user to ride in a substantially upright position so as to beable to properly perform action sport maneuvers in a hydroplaneenvironment.

Current water sports include various activities wherein a user rides,stands or kneels upright on a piece of equipment to perform variousathletic maneuvers. Such sports include for example water skiing, wakeboarding, wake skating, surfing, ocean skim boarding and flatland skimboarding. These types of activities require wind, engine or wind poweredmarine vessels, waves, physical energy from users, generally on openbodies of water such as oceans, lakes or rivers. None of theseactivities provide an artificial environment wherein a hydroplaningsurface is substantially provided on a continuous basis on devices andwith equipment that enable a user to perform action, substantiallyelevated air, and big air, grinding, and sliding maneuvers. The presentinvention does provide such an artificial environment and equipment.Further, the present invention provides an artificial environment whichprovides kinetic energy (from gravity and users) that can be deployed onland, floating on water, which can be used in conjunction with openwater, natural, artificial, man-made, or any combination thereof withoutthe need for open bodies of water, waves or powered marine vessels.

Other conventional devices have tried to provide action sports and boardriding experience on devices with an artificial environment. One exampledevice is one that mimics the snow ski environment, as disclosed in U.S.Pat. No. 5,503,597 to Livermore. The Livermore patent discloses anartificial ski mat placed over a surface area, where snow skiing andsnowboarding activities can be performed. The ski or snowboard comes indirect contact with the ski mat. Water is used as a lubricator for themat surface. This conventional device fails to provide a substantiallycontinuous hydroplane environment and equipment for users to performaction, substantially elevated air, and big air maneuvers.

Another example is U.S. Pat. No. 5,564,859 and U.S. Pat. No. 5,393,170to Thomas J. Lochtefeld, —Method and apparatus for improving sheet flowwater rides. The Lochtefeld patent discloses a device which creates aflow of water generated from propulsion pumps which allow for single andmultiple participants. The participants perform various maneuvers on aflow of water much like ocean surfing, wherein the participant stayswithin a confined area of device, and in event of a fall, is pushed overback of device by propulsion of water flow. The Lochtefeld device forcesa flow of water over a horizontal surface and then up an incline toprovide a wave type environment for the participants. The Lochtefelddevice requires a super-critical velocity propelled at the participantto maintain the balance of the participant. The device disclosed byLochtefeld fails to provide an environment wherein gravity is theprimary force that propels the riders through the device whilehydroplaning.

To participate in conventional action “extreme” sports at the highestability level requires year round training. Some conventional devices,like the Livermore device mentioned above, have attempted to provide anenvironment where athletes can practice year round. Athletes can travelto different parts of the world that have the right weather, temperatureand other conditions to train. However, a lot of local athletes lack thefunds to travel the world and conventional devices fail to provide thedynamic environment required to train for all the maneuvers required.The present invention overcomes these limitations.

Another aspect of the conventional art is the wake boarder and amateurskim boarder. These people use conventional ocean skim boards,conventional flatland skim boards, conventional wake boards and othersimilar devices on shallow rivers or standing water. The users run andthen jump on the conventional equipment to ride or skim across thesurface of the shallow or standing water or are pulled behind a poweredmarine vessel. This type of amateur conventional activity fails toprovide the required potential and kinetic energy required to executeextreme action sport maneuvers and substantially elevated air maneuverson a hydroplane environment without the use of powered marine vessel orbeing pulled by a winch.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

It is an object of the present invention to overcome the drawbacks andshortcomings of conventional action extreme sport devices andenvironments. This present invention provides for the devices andequipment for a person or extreme sport athlete to participate in waterhydroplane action sport activities and maneuvers on a substantiallycontinuous hydroplane surface, wherein the device does not require openbodies of water or for a user to be pulled by a power source such as apowered marine vessel or winch. It should be appreciated that thepresent invention can be used with or in conjunction with natural andartificial man-made open and closed bodies of water, such as pools,lakes, streams, rivers, ponds, and ocean, indoor and outdoor.

The present invention provides the environment and the potential andkinetic energy to participate in extreme action sport maneuvers on aliquid hydroplane environment on a surface disposed on land, floating onwater, or in conjunction with open and closed bodies of water, naturaland artificial.

The present invention provides the equipment for users to utilize so asto stand or kneel in an upright position to perform skimming, action,substantially elevated air, and big air maneuvers in a liquid hydroplaneenvironment.

Further, an objective of the present invention is to provide anenvironment for extreme action sport athletes and users to participate,practice and train year round in a continuous hydroplane environment.

Additionally, the present invention provides a device that can be usedin a variety of locations, including for example indoors, outdoors,backyards, arenas, stadiums, parks, and resorts, urban, suburban andrural, beach and mountain areas.

Further, the liquid hydroplane environment as disclosed in thisinvention, provides a method for the generation of revenue at designatedlocations in a new “branded” environment, such as a theme-park, sportscomplex, facility, or venue, or in already existing locationstemporarily or permanently converted over to create liquid hydroplaneenvironment for private personal use, commercial use, charitable events,entertainment, amusement, games and sporting events, participated inyear round.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a liquidhydroplane environment device that is mobile and can be transported fromone location to another with ease of transportability. In one suchembodiment, the hydroplane environment is transported by a towingvehicle and trailer which has this hydroplane environment devicetemporarily attached for transportation to desired location. Thehydroplane environment device is set-up for use by the participants. Itshould be appreciated that this invention also allows for a liquidhydroplane environment to be permanently attached to a mobile primaryvehicle, towing vehicle, or trailer, or any combination thereof which isthen transported to a location and set-up for use by participants. Itshould also be appreciated that the mobile unit can be used inconjunction with various liquid hydroplane environment devices asdisclosed in this invention which are placed permanently, temporarily,or both, with use in natural, artificial or combination bodies of water.

Another object of the present invention is to provide liquid hydroplaneenvironment modular units that provide a liquid hydroplane environment,which user, athlete, or rider utilizes as described in this invention toperform various “extreme” action sport maneuvers, air, substantiallyelevated air, and big air maneuvers. The liquid hydroplane environmentmodular units can be of a multi-piece construction or unitary injectionmolded, which has either an internal or external plumbing system. Theliquid hydroplane environment modular unit can be used in singular orplural, which are mated together in various configurations such as“tile” or “end-to-end” formations. Liquid hydroplane environment modularunits can be support with conventional support systems and structuresmade from wood, metal, concrete, scaffolding, or laid over othersufficient support such as land, concrete, or already existingconventional action sport devices such as used for skateboarding,snowboarding, and snow skiing. Further, liquid hydroplane environmentmodular units can be constructed or injection molded in various shapesand sizes to provide liquid hydroplane environment embodiments such ashalfpipe, quarterpipe, big air, slopestyle, stair-step cascading, jump,slope, or ramp where user can perform various “extreme” action sportmaneuvers.

The present invention also provides various articles of equipment foruse in the liquid hydroplane environment. The hydroplane equipmentincludes skim skis, boards, bindings, boots, and poles, helmets, upperbody protection, lower body protection, foot wear, hand wear, and eyewear.

The present invention further provides a hydroplaning device for a rideron hydroplane equipment to perform liquid sport athletic maneuvers,comprising: a support member having a height relative to the ground anda slope; a surface member disposed on the support member along theslope, wherein the surface member forms at least an angled surface and acatchment area; a liquid circulation system, having a liquid sourcehaving a liquid, at least one feed line and at least one return line,the liquid source being in fluid communication with the at least onefeed line and the at least one return line being in fluid communicationwith at least one of the liquid source and a disposal location; at leastone liquid dispenser disposed adjacent to at least one of the supportmember and the surface member, the at least one liquid dispenser beingin fluid communication with the at least one feed line; at least onedrain disposed at least one of adjacent to and within the catchment areaof the surface member and being in fluid communication with the at leastone return line; and, wherein when the device is in use the liquid fromthe liquid source will flow through the at least one feed line, out theat least one liquid dispenser, down the angled surface at a sufficientrate so as to create a hydroplane layer of liquid on the angled surfaceto the catchment area, through the at least one drain and to the atleast one return line, and wherein the rider while on the hydroplaneequipment will hydroplane on the hydroplane layer as gravity pulls therider down the angled surface.

The present invention yet further provides a device for creating ahydroplane skim surface for allowing a rider to hydroplane on hydroplaneequipment, comprising: a surface member having an angle relative to theground; at least one liquid dispenser adjacent on the surface member;and a liquid feed being in fluid communication with the at least oneliquid dispenser, wherein when the hydroplane surface device is in use,liquid from the liquid feed will flow through the at least one liquiddispenser, down the surface member at a sufficient rate so as to createa hydroplane layer of liquid on the surface member, and wherein therider while on the hydroplane equipment will skim on the hydroplanelayer as gravity pulls the rider down the surface member.

The present invention still further provides an extreme action sportmethod comprising the steps: acquiring a hydroplane environment devicehaving at least an angled surface; flowing a liquid over the angledsurface of the hydroplane environment device to create a continuoushydroplane surface acquiring hydroplane sports equipment for use on thehydroplane environment device; fitting a rider with the hydroplanesports equipment; and, disposing the rider at an elevated portion of theangled surface of the hydroplane environment devices and allowinggravity to pull the rider down the hydroplane environment device suchthat the rider hydroplanes on top of the continuous hydroplane surfacewith the hydroplane sports equipment.

The present invention provides a hydroplane board comprising: a boardmember having a first end, a second end defining a length, a thickness,a first surface and a second surface, wherein the first end and thesecond end have a bend in the direction from the second surface towardsthe first surface; and, a plurality of flexibility grooves disposed onthe first surface, near the first end and generally perpendicular to thelength.

The present invention further provides a hydroplaning riding device fora rider to hydroplane upon a liquid surface, comprising: an elongatedmember having a first end, a second end defining a length, a thickness,a first surface and a second surface, wherein the first end and thesecond end have a bend in the direction from the second surface towardsthe first surface, wherein the second surface when in use is operablyconfigured to hydroplane upon the liquid surface; and, a plurality ofgrooves disposed on the second surface and being generally parallel tothe length of the elongated member. The riding device can be a ski or aboard.

The present invention also provides a binding device for use on a boardto secure a rider to the board for use in a water hydroplaneenvironment, comprising: a sole portion having a first end and a secondend, which includes a plurality of fastener orifices; two side portionsattached to the sole portion; a heel portion attached to the second endand the two side portions; a calf portion rotateably attached to theheel portion; a first securing member attached to the two side portionsnear the first end; a second securing member attached to the two sideportions near the heel portion; a third securing member attached to thecalf portion; and, wherein the sole portion, two side portions, heelportion and calf portion include a plurality of orifices to reduceweight and when in use to allow the water to drain through out of thebinding device.

The present invention still further provides a ski boot for in use in awater hydroplane environment, for locking into a ski binding,comprising: a shell member; an insert to removably fit inside the shellmember; a toe end and a heel end, operably configured to engage the skibinding; wherein the shell member includes a plurality of orifices toreduce weight and when in use allow the drainage of the water.

These and other features and advantages of this invention are describedin, or are apparent from, the following detailed description of variousexemplary embodiments of the devices and methods according to thisinvention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Various exemplary embodiments of this invention will be described indetail, with reference to the following figures, wherein;

FIG. 1A is a perspective view of a hydroplane environment device made inaccordance with this invention;

FIG. 1B is a schematic outline of the hydroplane surface of thehydroplane environment device made in accordance with the presentinvention of FIG. 1A;

FIG. 2 is a side view of the device of FIG. 1A;

FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of a surface area of the device in FIG.1A taken along line 3-3 in FIG. 1A;

FIG. 4 is cross-sectional view of the surface area of the device in FIG.1A taken along line 4-4 in FIG. 3;

FIG. 5 is cross-sectional view of an alternative embodiment of thesurface area shown in FIG. 3;

FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of the surface area shown in FIG. 5taken along line 6-6 in FIG. 5;

FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view of another alternative embodiment ofthe surface area shown in FIG. 3;

FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of the surface area shown in FIG. 7taken along line 8-8 in FIG. 7;

FIG. 9A is a detailed front view of the surface area of the device inFIG. 1A;

FIG. 9B is a detailed back view of the detailed front view of thesurface area of FIG. 9A of the device in FIG. 1A;

FIG. 10 is a detail of the circle A in FIG. 9A presenting detail of thesurface area of the device in FIG. 1A;

FIG. 11 is a detailed of the ellipse B in FIG. 9A, presenting a sideview of a dispensing portion of the devise in FIG. 1A;

FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view of the dispensing portion of FIG. 11taken along line 12-12 in FIG. 11;

FIG. 13 is a detailed of the circle C in FIG. 1A, presenting aperspective detailed view of the dispensing portion of the devise inFIG. 1A;

FIG. 14 is a perspective view of a jump module hydroplane environmentdevice made in accordance with this invention;

FIG. 15 is a detailed of the circle D in FIG. 14, presenting aperspective detailed view of a dispensing portion of the device in FIG.14;

FIG. 16 is a perspective view of a landing module hydroplane environmentdevice made in accordance with this invention;

FIG. 17 is a perspective view of a box module hydroplane environmentdevice made in accordance with this invention;

FIG. 18 is a perspective view of a half-pipe hydroplane environmentdevice made in accordance with this invention;

FIG. 19 is a side view of the half-pipe hydroplane environment device ofFIG. 18;

FIG. 20 is a perspective view of a quarter pipe hydroplane environmentdevice made in accordance with this invention;

FIG. 21 is a side view of the quarter pipe hydroplane environment deviceof FIG. 20;

FIG. 22 is a perspective view of a half-frustum conical hydroplaneenvironment device made in accordance with this invention;

FIG. 23 is a side view of the half-frustum conical hydroplaneenvironment device of FIG. 22;

FIG. 24 is a side view of an alternative embodiment of the a hydroplaneenvironment device made in accordance with this invention;

FIG. 25 is a side view of an another alternative embodiment of ahydroplane environment device made in accordance with this invention;

FIG. 26 is a perspective view of a skim board device made in accordancewith this invention for use on hydroplaning devices made in accordancewith this invention;

FIG. 27 is a side view of the skim board device of FIG. 26;

FIG. 28 is a bottom view of the skim board device of FIG. 26;

FIG. 29 is a cross-section view of the skim board device of FIG. 26,taken along line 29-29 in FIG. 28;

FIG. 30 is a bottom view of an alternative embodiment of a skim boarddevice made in accordance;

FIG. 31 is a cross-section view of the skim board device of FIG. 30,taken along line 31-31 in FIG. 30;

FIG. 32 is a perspective view an another alternative embodiment of askim board device made in accordance with this invention;

FIG. 33 is a bottom view of the skim board device of FIG. 32;

FIG. 34 is a cross-section view of the skim board device of FIG. 32,taken along line 34-34 in FIG. 33;

FIG. 35 is a perspective view of still another alternative embodiment ofa skim board device made in accordance with this invention;

FIG. 36 is a top view of the skim board device of FIG. 35;

FIG. 37 is a bottom view of the skim board device of FIG. 35;

FIG. 38 is a cross-section view of the skim board device of FIG. 35,taken along line 38-38 in FIG. 37;

FIG. 39 is a perspective view of still another alternative embodiment ofa skim board device made in accordance with this invention;

FIG. 40 is a top view of the skim board device of FIG. 39;

FIG. 41 is a bottom view of the skim board device of FIG. 39;

FIG. 42 is a cross-section view of the skim board device of FIG. 39,taken along line 42-42 in FIG. 41;

FIG. 43 is a perspective view of a binding device for use on the skimboard of FIG. 26, made in accordance with this invention;

FIG. 44 is a perspective view of a skim ski device made in accordancewith this invention for use on the device 10 of FIG. 1A;

FIG. 45 is a bottom view of the skim ski device of FIG. 44;

FIG. 46 is a side view of the skim ski device of FIG. 44;

FIG. 47 is a cross-section view of the skim ski device of FIG. 44, takenalong line 47-43 in FIG. 45;

FIG. 48 is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of a skim skidevice made in accordance with this invention;

FIG. 49 is a bottom view of the skim ski device of FIG. 48;

FIG. 50 is a side view of the skim ski device of FIG. 48;

FIG. 51 is a cross-section view of the skim ski device of FIG. 48, takenalong line 51-51 in FIG. 49;

FIG. 52 is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of a skim skidevice made in accordance with this invention;

FIG. 53 is a bottom view of the skim ski device of FIG. 52;

FIG. 54 is a side view of the skim ski device of FIG. 52;

FIG. 55 is a cross-section view of the skim ski device of FIG. 52, takenalong line 55-55 in FIG. 53;

FIG. 56 is a side view of an alternative embodiment of a binding devicefor use on the skim ski of FIG. 44, made in accordance with thisinvention;

FIG. 57 is a top view of the binding device of FIG. 56;

FIG. 58 is a side view of a boot device for use in the binding device ofFIG. 56, made in accordance with this invention;

FIG. 59 is a side view of an alternative embodiment of a boot device foruse in the binding device of FIG. 43, made in accordance with thisinvention; and,

FIG. 60 is a perspective view of a balance pole for use in thehydroplane environment made in accordance with this invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

When one thinks of extreme actions sports with users standing andperforming maneuvers on a board or ski, some sports such asskateboarding, snowboarding, snow or water skiing, or flatland skimboarding come to mind. Other terms or features may also come to mindlike, ramps, half-pipes, quarter pipes, bowls, jumps, rails, and such.The above mentioned conventional extreme action sports all require theirown environment. A skateboard at a concrete or wooden skate park,snowboarders and snow skiers, a snow covered mountain, wake boarders andwater skiers require a lake.

The present invention creates an entirely new sport having an entirelynew environment and equipment. This new environment is a hydroplaneenvironment, wherein a liquid, flows over a surface area at a controlledrate and depth. A user or rider, dons equipment, such as skis or aboard, including equipment made in accordance with the present inventionand described below. The user skims or hydroplanes on a surface of thepresent invention, wherein the user is generally skimming on a thinlayer of liquid.

FIG. 1A is a perspective view of an embodiment for an extreme actionhydroplaning device 10, made in accordance with the present invention.As shown in FIGS. 1A and 2, the extreme action hydroplaning device 10comprises a support member or structure 15, a surface member 40, and aliquid 5 circulation system 80. The support structure 15 in the presentembodiment is a conventionally constructed support structure to provideheight or potential energy to a user or rider 1. The support structure15 is a connection of a plurality of support braces 16 and posts 17using conventional construction techniques. The support structure 15further includes a ladder 18, platform 19 and safety rail 20. While theladder 18 in the present embodiment provide access for the rider 1 tothe platform 19, it should be appreciated that in other variousexemplary embodiments, platform access can be achieved by various meanssuch as steps, stairs, elevators, lifts systems, the ground and thelike.

The support structure 15 in the present embodiment is constructed out ofwood. However, it should be appreciated that in other various exemplaryembodiments, the support member could be constructed out of metal,plastics, concrete or composites, or any combination thereof, as iscommon in the art. Further, in other various exemplary embodiments, thesupport member could be a downhill gradient of earth, such as a skislope, or already existing conventional action sports device used forskateboarding or bicycle motocross (BMX). It should also be appreciatedthat the support structure in other embodiments is other types ofsupport, such as scaffolding or the like. Further, in other exemplaryembodiments, the support structure is mounted to mobile vehicles, suchas trucks and trailers. In these mobile embodiments, the othercomponents of the action hydroplaning device would be included on ortransported by the mobile vehicles.

The support structure 15 in the present embodiment, is a downhill rampthat includes a height 21. It should be appreciated that in variousother exemplary embodiments, the support structure could present otherconfigurations, such as a half-pipe, quarter pipe, a bowl, jumps orlanding ramp, for example, some of which will be discussed latter. Thesupport structure can include various modules, such as ramps,half-pipes, quarter pipes, bowls, jumps, flat surfaces, etc., that arecombined together to form more complex arrangements of structures. Itshould also be appreciated that in other various exemplary embodimentsthe device 10 and support structure 15 can be configured in variousheights, combinations, and configurations above ground, in ground, orany combination thereof, and also in accordance with user preference,extreme hydroplane sport discipline, or other preference. It should beappreciated that invention embodiments can be made in smaller sizes tobe used as toys or decorations utilizing figurines or dolls.

The support structure 15 provides the potential energy for the rider 1by way of the height 21. The rider 1 translates the potential energyinto kinetic energy by hydroplaning down the surface member 40 and usesthe kinetic energy to execute extreme action sport maneuvers, as will bediscussed below.

The liquid circulation system 80 includes pumps 81, a liquid supply 82,plumbing supply lines 83, plumbing return lines 84, a plurality ofdrains 85 and a plurality of liquid feeds 86. In the present embodiment,the supplies lines 83 and return lines 84 are conventional polyvinylchloride (PVC) material. However, it should be appreciated that in othervarious exemplary embodiments the supply and return lines could be ofother material as is common in the art. The pump 81 takes the liquid 5from the liquid supply 82 and via the supply lines 83 feeds the liquid 5to the plurality of liquid feeds 86 disposed on the surface member 40.In this embodiment, two pumps 81 are shown, one on the supply side ofthe liquid circulation system and one on the return side. It should beappreciated that the return side pump is optional, but is preferred tobe used if the supply source is level or higher than the catchment areaand drains. The liquid circulation system 80 provides the liquid 5 tothe surface member 40 to maintain a hydroplane environment on thesurface member 40.

The liquid 5 is supplied to the surface member 40 by the plurality ofliquid feeds 86 and flows down the surface member 40 by the force ofgravity. The liquid 5 will tend to pool at the bottom of the rampstructure and drain from the surface member 40 via the plurality ofdrains 85. The drains 85 are in fluid communication with the returnlines 84. The liquid 5 travels from the drains 85 to the return lines 84and return to the liquid supply 82.

In the present embodiment, the liquid 5 in use is water. However itshould be appreciated that in other various exemplary embodiments, theliquid could be of other forms or compounds that have a high viscosity,such as, but not limited to glycol for example. Additionally, it iscontemplated by this invention that additives, common in the art may beincluded with the water 5 as required to increase the viscosity of thewater. Still further, non-conventional liquids may be use in the device10 such as juice, soda, alcohol (wine, beer, or Champaign) if so desiredby the rider 1 or user.

The liquid supply 82 in the present embodiment is a tank. However, itshould be appreciated that in other various exemplary embodiments, thetank could be replaced or combined with any natural or man-made watersource, such as, for example, a lake, river, pool or city water supply.Additionally, if a natural source of water is being used, it iscontemplated by this invention, that the water could drain back into thenatural supply instead of being pumped to the tank.

In the present embodiment, at least one half inch of water 5 is desiredon the surface member 40, as depicted in FIG. 3. However, it should beappreciated that in other various exemplary embodiments the amount ofliquid 5 on the surface member to maintain the hydroplane environmentwill vary according to several factors, such as, the steepness of thestructure, the weight of the rider, and the desired equipment to be usedby the rider are among the few to be considered. The formulation of howto provide this flow rate is calculated using conventional hydraulicmethods for determining pressures, flow rates and the height the liquid5 must be pumped, as is common in the art. An exemplary example indetermining the flow rate is as follows: 900 Gallons Per Hour (or 15Gallons Per Minute) multiplied per one lineal foot of weir (or liquidflow) across the fluid dispenser (or coping). The minimum amount ofliquid supply in gallons is calculated by multiplying thelength×width×depth×7.5×3 will provide the amount of gallons of liquidneeded to supply the hydroplane surface liquid at ½ inch level. Itshould be appreciated that one skilled in the art of hydro-physics candetermine the minimum ½ inch level of water liquid needed relative tosize of hydroplane embodiment module by using calculation values knownby those skilled in the art.

The surface member 40 is supported by the support structure 15. In otherexemplary embodiments, it is optional to have the surface member 40removably attached to the support structure 15. In the presentembodiment, as shown in FIGS. 3 and 4 the surface member 40 comprises afirst layer or support layer 41, a second layer or barrier 42, and athird layer or skim surface 43, which provides the hydroplaneenvironment. It should be appreciated that the surface member may beconstructed from various layers as contemplated by this embodiment orfrom a unitary type construction, such as injection molding wherein thelayers are not necessarily distinct separate layers as will be discussedfurther below. Further, the surface member can be unitary or be made upof distinct pieces that are placed adjacent to one another to form theentire width and length of the surface member 40.

The surface member 40 has a width 51. The width is defined by aplurality of portions or side walls 44. It should be appreciated thatthe width of the surface member 40 may be different for differentapplications. Some additional exemplary embodiments with other widthdimensions will be discussed further below. The plurality of portions 44in the present embodiment are side walls or gunwales that define theboundary of the skim surface or hydroplane region 40. It should beappreciated that the gunwales in other exemplary embodiments areadjustable in height to control liquid depth level. The heightadjustment in those embodiments can be controlled manually,electronically, hydraulically or the like.

The surface member 40 further includes a length, a first end 58 and asecond end 59, which extends from where the surface member 40 joins thetop of the support structure 15 at the loading platform 19 to the secondend 59 of the surface member 40. The second end 59 is removable tofacilitate the addition of other components or modules, as will bediscussed below.

The plurality of liquid feeds 86 disposed on the surface member 40further includes a plurality of dispensing portions 45, a plurality ofdispensing portions 46, and a horizontal or coping dispenser 55. Whilethe present embodiment depicts all of the plurality of feeds employed onthe device 10, it should be appreciated that in other various exemplaryembodiments the device may have any combination of the plurality of feedattached or in use.

The present embodiment includes two dispensing portions 45A and 45B,which are disposed adjacent the third layer 43. More preferably, thedispensing portions 45A and 45B are disposed on top of the third layer43. The dispensing portions 45A and 45B are further preferred to bedisposed against the gunwales 44. It should be appreciated that thedispensing portions in other various exemplary embodiments can bedisposed in different locations from one another relative to the thirdlayer 43. The dispensing portions 45A and 45B extend along at least aportion of the length of the surface member 40. It is further preferredthat the dispensing portions 45A and 45B be disposed along substantiallythe entire length of the surface member 40, as can be seen in FIG. 1A.It should be appreciated that dispensing portions can, in otherexemplary embodiments, be disposed along at least one portion of thelength of the surface member. The dispensing portions 45A and 45B are influid communication with the supply lines 83.

The dispensing portions 45A and 45B include a plurality of elongatedopenings 63, which can be seen in FIGS. 3, 4, 9A and 11 through whichthe supplied liquid 5 may egress from the dispensing portion to thesurface member 40. The plurality of dispensing portions 45 preferablyterminate at the end 59 of the surface member 40.

FIGS. 11 and 12 display a detail of the plurality of dispensing portions45. The plurality of dispensing portions 45 includes an outer member 61,an inner member 62 and an axis 65. The inner member 62 is disposedwithin the outer member 61. This arrangement can be thought of as a pipewithin a pipe arrangement. It is preferred that the inner member 62 becoaxially aligned with the outer member 61 along the axis 65. The innermember 62 is in fluid communication with the supply lines 83 viaconventional plumbing techniques, mechanisms and hardware that arecommon in the art. The liquid 5 is supplied to the inner member 62 asshown by the arrow D in FIG. 15. A plurality of orifices 64 are disposedalong the length of the inner member 62. The orifices 64 are preferredto be circular in shape. The outer member 61 includes the pluralityopenings 63. The openings 63 are preferred to be rectangle, with roundedcorners, or elongated oval in shape. The openings 63 are disposed alongthe outer member 61. It can be appreciated that in other embodiments theplurality of openings 63 may be circular in shape with an increasedquantity disposed along the dispensing portions 45 as shown in FIGS. 14,17, and 19 for example. The plurality of orifices 64 in the presentembodiment are preferably about one quarter inch orifices. However, itshould be appreciated that in other various embodiments, other orificecould be or other sizes or mechanical nozzles to provide the proper flowrate to the surface member 40. Further, it should be appreciated that inother various exemplary embodiments, the orifices on the respectiveinner and outer members are shapes other than circles and ovals.Additionally, in other embodiments, the orifices of the inner and outermembers have the same shape. Additionally, in other embodiments, theinner member 62 and outer member 61 can be aligned along the axis invarious positions according to user preference.

In the present embodiment the inner member 62 is a one inch polyvinylchloride (PVC) pipe and the outer member 61 is a two inch PVC pipe.However, it should be appreciated that in other various embodiments,other materials and sizes common in the art may be used. It should beappreciated that the diameter difference between outer member 61 andinner member 62 can vary depending upon the selection of the user for aparticular application from about ¼ inch up to about 1 inch for mostapplications and from about 1 inch to greater than 3 inches for largerapplications. Further, it should be appreciated that the diameterdifference between outer member 61 and inner member 62 in extremelylarge embodiments can be greater than 3 inches.

For the purpose of orientation in reference to FIG. 12, the terms left,right, up and down will be used. This orientation is not intended to belimiting in the application of the plurality of dispensing portions 45.The plurality of orifices 64 enable the liquid 5, flowing through theinner member 62 from the supply lines 83, to exit the inner member 62towards the right in the direction of the arrow A. The pluralityelongated openings 63 enables the liquid 5, flowing out of the innermember 62, to exit the outer member 61 towards the left (or towards theskim surface 43 in this exemplary embodiment) and downward in thedirection of the arrow B. With this arrangement of the respectiveorifices, the liquid 5 spills over the bottom edge of each of theopenings 63 and onto the skim surface 43. The orifices 64, are preferredto be positioned such that its axis is substantially even with the axis65 as to the up and down relative position of the axis 65. The openings63 are preferred to be positioned such that each respective opening 65is positioned below or more down than the axis 65. In the presentembodiment, the ratio of orifices 64 to orifices of the elongatedopenings 63 along the length of dispensing portion 45 is preferred to be3 to 1. However, it should be appreciated that in other variousembodiments, other ratios may be utilized to accomplish desired flowrates of the liquid 5 exiting the elongated openings.

The plurality of dispensers 45 of the surface member 40 include a femaleend 53, as shown in FIG. 13, disposed at the portion of the plurality ofdispensers 45 near the end 59, which is operably configured to receive asealable male fitting, which is common in the art. In FIG. 13, a portionof the end 59 has been removed to expose the female end 53 for couplingup to another device, as will be discussed below. It should beappreciated that in other various embodiments the connection of plumbinglines together can use various connection fittings as those used commonin the art.

The plurality of dispensing portions 46 are disposed throughout the areaof the surface member 40, as shown in FIG. 9A. The plurality ofdispensing portions 46 are dispersed in a pattern about the skim surface43. The pattern of the plurality of dispensing portions 46 is uniform onthe surface member 40 with more dispensers 46 in the steeper sectionsand less dispensers 46 in more horizontal sections. The plurality ofdispensing portions 46 penetrate the first and second layers 41 and 42,as shown in FIG. 4. The portions 46 are preferred to be a conduit havinga surface end and a non-surface end. The surface end being designed tobe flush with the skim surface 43 of the surface member 40. Thenon-surface end of each of the plurality of dispensing portions 46 isconnected to a nozzle 47. A supply line 48 is connected to the nozzle47. The supply line 48 is in fluid communication with at least one ofthe supply lines 83. The nozzle 47 is preferred to be an adjustablenozzle to provide a variable flow rate based on a variety of factors.Such factors include, for example, the type of liquid 5 being used asthe skimming fluid, the location of the nozzle on the surface member,the desired depth of skimming fluid. The nozzles 47 will assist incontrolling the amount of liquid 5 being dispensed on the surface member40. Further, it should be appreciated that the nozzles 47 can be manualor automatically controlled, such as by a computer or computer program,to adjust the flow rate of the liquid 5. It should be appreciated thatin various embodiments dispensers 46 can be increased or decreased inquantity at various locations of the embodiment to affect liquid depthand flow rate according to user or rider preference, steepness ofembodiment surface, and types of maneuvers being performed.

Additionally, it should be appreciated that the control of the nozzlescan be dependent upon sensors, not shown, positioned about the surfacemember. The sensors, in some exemplary embodiments would detect thedepth and/or the speed of the water at various locations, and/orlocation and speed of user or rider on hydroplane environment skimsurface and alter the flow from particular nozzles upstream from theparticular sensor to achieve a desired depth and flow rate of theskimming liquid 5. It should further be appreciated that the pluralityof dispensing portions 45, the plurality of dispensing portions 46, andthe horizontal or coping dispenser 55 and any pumps and nozzlesassociated therewith could be similarly be manually or automaticallycontrolled. Moreover, the control of the plurality of dispensingportions 45, the plurality of dispensing portions 46, and the horizontalor coping dispenser 55 and any pumps and nozzles associated therewith,could be dependent upon sensors as discussed above for nozzles 47.

The surface end of the each of the plurality of dispensing portions 46have a cross-sectional shape at the surface of the surface member 40.The cross-sectional shapes are preferably not the same for all of thedispensing portions 46. The dispensing portions preferably have twodifferent cross-sectional shaped openings, some being rectangular inshape and some are circular in shape as can be seen in FIG. 9A.Preferably, the rectangular shaped openings of the plurality ofdispensing portions 46 are generally disposed near the steeper sectionsof the surface member 40 and reduce in number as the surface memberlevels out. The plurality of dispensing portions 46 that are circular inshape generally increase in number as the surface member 40 starts totransition to the horizontal. The combination of rectangular shaped andcircular shaped plurality of dispensing portions 46 is adjusteddepending on the steepness of the device 10, the quickness with whichthe surface member levels towards the horizontal in order to maintainthe hydroplane environment. It should be appreciated that someembodiments, such as halfpipe, quarterpipe, big air, ramp-to-ramp, andhalf-frustum conical, the liquid dispensers can be reduced in quantityin steeper and/or vertical sections of hydroplane environment skimsurface according to user or rider preference for type of maneuversbeing performed.

The coping dispenser 55, is similar in design as the plurality ofdispensing portions 45. The coping dispenser 55 is disposed along thefirst end 58 of the surface member 40. It is preferred that the copingdispenser 55 extend along substantially the entire width of the firstend 58, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 9A. The coping dispenser 55 is the sameconstruction as the plurality of dispensing portions 45.

FIG. 9B rear view of the surface member 40, or the backside of thefeatures in FIG. 9A. Supply lines 83 supplies liquid 5 to supply tubes48, which in turn supply liquid 5 to the nozzles 47. As shown in FIG.9B, the supply of liquid 5 is set up as a manifold. It should beappreciated that the supply lines 83 could be arranged in otherconfigurations to supply the liquid 5 to the supply lines 48 as iscommon in the art. The manifold liquid supply in this exemplaryembodiment is preset to a predetermined supply amount based upon thediameter of the lines used and the volume of water being supplied. Itshould be appreciated that in other exemplary embodiments, the manifoldliquid supply is controlled manually, electronically or a combination ofboth. Further, the liquid dispensers may also be linked directly to theliquid supply and bypass the manifold or the manifold may be removed alltogether in other exemplary embodiments.

The third layer or skim surface 43 forms the exterior surface of thesurface member 40 upon which the skimming liquid 5 will flow. In thepresent embodiment the skim surface 43 is made from a fiberglassmaterial. It should be appreciated that in other various exemplaryembodiments, the skim surface could be of other materials, such as, forexample, polymer composites, rubber coated materials, etc. The skimsurface 43 is the area that the user or rider 1 uses with specialequipment (to be discussed further below) to hydroplane upon a skimmingliquid 5 along the surface member 40.

The third layer or skim surface 43, includes smooth areas and areas thatinclude a plurality of rises or bumps 57, as shown in FIGS. 9A and 10.The rises 57 preferably have a cross-section that is circular in shape.It should be appreciated that shapes other than circles may be utilizedin other various exemplary embodiments, such as triangles, diamonds,ovals, etc. The plurality of rises 57 aid the rider 1 in reestablishingthe hydroplane environment after leaving the skim surface 43 while doingan athletic maneuver. Particularly, as a rider 1 lands on the rampdevice 10 after performing a maneuver the extra force from landing onthe ramp 10 will tend to displace the liquid 5 under the rider 1.However, the rider 1 will land on the top of the rises and since therises have a height above the skim surface 43, the liquid 5 will stillbe flowing under the rider 1 aiding the rapid return of the hydroplaningenvironment for the rider 1. It should be appreciated that in otherexemplary embodiments the skim surface is partially or entirely smooth.It is an option of this invention to have the plurality of rises orbumps 57 disposed only on steeper or transitional portions of thesurface member 40, because in the flatter regions there will tend to bedeeper levels of skimming liquid 5 and the rider is unlikely to displaceall of the liquid 5 in the deeper areas. Flatter regions preferably willrange in depth from ½ inches to 6 inches or more, depending on userpreference, hydroplane sport discipline and maneuvers being performed byuser, and use of hydroplane embodiment relative to artificial, natural,or combination thereof liquid supply or embodiment. It can beappreciated that when hydroplane embodiment is used in conjunction withnatural liquid supply such as ocean, lake, or river, or with artificialliquid supply such as with pool or tank, the liquid depth level mayincrease greater than 6 inches while still providing for efficienthydroplane environment to users. Further, it should be appreciated depthof liquid could be reduced progressively from flatter or horizontalregions transitioning through the radius and angled or vertical regionsdepending upon user preference, hydroplane sport discipline andmaneuvers being performed by user or rider. The progressive reduction indepth of the liquid going up a ramp type device is facilitated by thenotion that gravity is pulling rider down the device and less liquid isneeded to sustain a hydroplane environment. Accordingly, in the steeperregions of a hydroplaning device, made in accordance with the presentinvention, gravity combined with the angle of the ramp/device allows therider to fall more rapidly than less steeper regions and thus lessliquid depth is needed.

In the embodiment shown in FIG. 10, each of the plurality of rises 57has a diameter 58 and a height above the skim surface 43. The diameter58 may have a range of one eighth to one half inch. The height may havea range of one eighth to three eighths of an inch. In this embodimentthe preferred diameter 58 is one quarter of an inch and the preferredheight is one thirty-second of an inch. It should be appreciated that inother various exemplary embodiments, the height and diameter could bevaried according to user preferences, type and size of hydroplaneembodiment used, type of maneuvers being performed, and type ofhydroplane device being used. It should be appreciated in one exemplaryexample, height and diameter used in the transition region of aquarterpipe with a platform 219 height of twenty feet would be greaterheight and diameter than what would be used in transition region of aquarterpipe with a platform 219 height of twelve feet. Further, itshould be appreciated height and diameter in various hydroplaneembodiments such as halfpipe, quarterpipe, and half-frustum conicalwould be of greater height and diameter in radius transition region ofembodiment and decrease in height and diameter size as radiustransitioned into vertical region of hydroplane surface.

The first layer 41 provides support to the third layer or skim surface43. In the present embodiment, the first layer 41 is preferred to bemade of plywood. However, it should be appreciated that in other variousexemplary embodiments, the first layer could be of other materials suchas metal, concrete, fiberglass, rubber, plastic, polymers, PVC, P-Tex,composites, etc., and injection molded, poured, or formed,

The second layer 42 is a protective barrier between the first and thirdlayers. In the present embodiment, the first layer 41 is a flexibleliquid impermeable polymer. However, it should be appreciated that inother various exemplary embodiments, the second layer could be of othermaterials such as metal, fiberglass, resin, plastic, rubber, polymersand composite materials, or combinations thereof.

The surface member 40, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 has a ramp or downhillslope configuration. The surface member 40 extends from where thesurface member 40 joins the top of the support structure 15 at theplatform 19 to the end 59 of the surface member 40. In thisconfiguration, the surface member 40 includes a catchment area 50, asshown in FIG. 1A. It should be appreciated that in other variousexemplary embodiments, the surface member may have additional gunwalesdisposed on the skim surface to create a lane, run, or course so thatmultiple riders 1 may use the device. It should further be appreciatedthat in other exemplary embodiments other preexisting structures canserve as the platform such as a deck, landing, roof, bridge, scaffoldingor the like.

It is should be appreciated that in other exemplary embodiments of thisinvention the surface member that supports the skim liquid and skimsurface could be of one piece construction, instead of the three layersas described above. FIG. 5 presents a cross-section of an alternativeembodiment of the surface member 40X. The surface member 40X is similarto the surface member 40. The surface member 40X includes a skim surface43X, a plurality of side portions 44X, dispensing portions 45AX and45BX, dispensing portions 46X. The surface member 40X also includesnozzles 47X and supply lines 48X. It should be appreciated that the onepiece embodiments can be injection molded from various materials commonin the art of injection molding. It should be appreciated that theinjection molded embodiments can be used in singular or plural in “tile”or end-to-end configuration forms. Further, it should be appreciatedthat embodiment can be supported with conventional support systems andstructures made from wood, metal, concrete, scaffolding, or laid overother sufficient support such as land, concrete, or already existingconventional action sport devices, such as used for skateboarding,snowboarding, and snow skiing. It should be appreciated that theinjection modular units can be molded with or without plumbing withinthe unit.

Surface member 40X is different from surface member 40 in that surfacemember 40X is of a one piece or unitary construction. In this embodimentthe surface member is preferably made by injected molding methods. FIG.6 shows a lateral cross-section of the surface member 40X taken alongline 6-6 in FIG. 5. As can be seen in FIGS. 5 and 6, the surface member40X does not include the three separate layers as in the surface member40. Rather these layers are combined in a one-piece construction. Itshould be appreciated that some of the plumbing features associated withthe surface member 40X are external to the unitary one-piececonstruction, such as the dispensing portions 45AX and 45BX, nozzles 47Xand supply lines 48X, while the dispensing portions 46X are embeddedwithin and preferably also extend from the construction and connect withthe nozzles 47X.

FIG. 7 presents a cross-section view of another alternative embodimentof a surface member 40Y. The surface member 40Y is similar to thesurface member 40 and 40X. The surface member 40Y includes a skimsurface 43Y, a plurality of side portions 44Y, dispensing portions 45AYand 45BY, and dispensing portions 46Y. The surface member 40Y alsoincludes supply lines 48Y. It should be appreciated that any of thesurface members made in accordance with the present invention can beinjection molded from various materials common in the art of injectionmolding. Further, it should be appreciated the injection moldedembodiments can be used in singular or plural, in “tile” or end-to-endconfiguration forms. It should be appreciated the injection moldedembodiments can be used in singular or plural, in “tile” or end-to-endconfiguration forms. Further, it should be appreciated embodiment can besupported with conventional support systems and structures made fromwood, metal, concrete, scaffolding, or laid over other systems andstructures made from wood, metal, concrete, scaffolding, or laid overother sufficient support such as land concrete, or already existingconventional action sport devices such as used for skateboarding,snowboarding, and snow skiing.

Surface member 40Y is different from surface member 40 in that thesurface member 40Y is constructed of injection molding, wherein all thedispensers 45AY, 45BY, and 46Y, as well as the valves 47Y and portionsof the supply lines 48Y are molded within the surface member 40Y.Additionally, the side portions 44 y are preferably integral to thesurface member 40Y. FIG. 8 shows a lateral cross-section of the surfacemember 40Y taken along line 8-8 in FIG. 7. As can be seen in FIGS. 7 and8, the surface member 40Y includes all the components internal to themolded surface member 40Y.

Additionally it should also be appreciated that the surface members 40Xand 40Y could be constructed of multiple modular sections that areconnected together to form the respective surface members as discussedbelow for member 40″, for example, in connection with FIG. 16. Whilethese are not shown, the surface members 40, 40X and 40Y could besimilar to puzzle pieces that fit together to assemble the surfacemember 40, 40X and 40Y on the support structure 15 as required. Itshould be appreciated that the injection molded constructions of theembodiments of FIGS. 5-8 enables for convenient application of usingsuch multiple modular sections being pieced together. Further it shouldbe appreciated that when modular sections are used, the injection moldedembodiments will include plumbing fittings on the sides and top andbottom of each module unit for mating with adjacent modules. Theseplumbing fittings will be external to the injected molded constructionin embodiments like that shown in FIGS. 5 and 6 and the plumbingfittings would be internal and extend from the injected moldedconstruction in embodiments like that shown in FIGS. 7-8. It shouldfurther be appreciated that the surface of the surface member may moreeasily be modified with injection molded embodiments. For example, thesurface of the surface members of any embodiment of devices made inaccordance with the present invention may undulate or be substantiallyflat. Further the overall shape of the surface member may be of avariety of shapes.

The catchment area 50 has a length. The catchment area 50 is atransition area wherein the rider 1 is transitioning from the slopesection of the surface member 40 to a more horizontal section. Theliquid 5 flowing down the surface member 40 will tend to pool in thecatchment area. The catchment area is a section where the rider 1 can,if desired, dissipates energy after riding down the slope of the skimsurface 43. The length is preferably determined or calculated accordingto the hydroplane environment sport activity discipline for which thedevice is to be utilized, the maneuvers to be performed by rider, therider preference, and ability of rider. The length dimension does nothave to be limited to the noted factors and can be as long as desired bythe user. Further in other exemplary embodiments the catchment area evenextends so as to mate or flow into a natural body of liquid, such as ariver or ocean. Further it should be appreciated that the catchment areais not limited to straight sections and in some other embodiments isactually shaped in non-linear shapes. The catchment area 50 includes theplurality of drains 85, which return the liquid 5 to the liquid supply82. The catchment area 50 also has some of the plurality of dispensers45 and 46. Further, the liquid 5, for this exemplary embodiment, isallowed to flow in to the catchment area 50 to a depth from one halfinch to about six inches, depending on the preferences of the user. Thelevel of the liquid 5 may increase beyond six inches if so desired bythe user 1. While the present embodiment has the plurality of drains 85are disposed near the end 59 of the surface member 40, it should beappreciated that in other various exemplary embodiments, the liquid 5can be returned to the supply tank 82 though other methods common in theart, such as but not limited to chutes, troughs, channels, and guttersand in fluid communication with return flow. Further, it should beappreciated that drains can be placed at various locations of hydroplanesurface and in fluid communication with return lines.

Further, it is contemplated by this invention that the flow rate of theliquid or fluid 5 to the surface member 40 be controlled either manuallyor automatically through the use of computer programs common in the art.Additionally, the flow rate of fluid could be controlled in real time bythe inclusion of electronic triggers and sensors common in the art thatare activated as the rider 1 passed specified locations along thesurface member 40. The activated sensors would in turn increase ordecrease the rate of fluid flow downstream of the rider 1 based onpreset parameters according to the rider 1 preferences.

The flow rate of the liquid, which is water for the present embodiment,is controlled such that the water maintains a depth of at least one halfinch long the skim surface 43 until the catchment area 50. The desiredflow rate should take in to account variables such as the weight of therider, the type and surface area of the riding equipment being used, thesteepness of the surface member 40, the density of the liquid being usedand the expertise of the rider. The heavier the rider, the more liquidflow that will be needed. The steeper the ramp the less flow that isneeded to maintain the hydroplane environment. The denser the liquid theless flow that is needed, the more experienced the rider, the less flowthat is needed and the great the surface area of the riding equipmentthe less flow that is need to maintain the hydroplane environment.

The device 10 may be used with a plurality of similar devices made inaccordance with the present invention to provide a skimming surface. Theother devices can be thought of as modular additions that can be used ina variety of combinations with one another and the device 10.

Referring to FIG. 1B, wherein a schematic representation or outline ofthe top surface is shown. An angle 90 is defined between the platform 19and a horizontal reference. The preferred angle for angle 90 is about 3to 7 degrees. The angle 90 enables riders to ease into the steep part ofthe ramp as opposed to abrupt drop. However, it should be appreciatedthat in other exemplary embodiments, 0 degrees may be employed for angle90. An angle 94 is defined between the surface member 40 and ahorizontal reference. The angle 94 is preferred to be about 15 to 85degrees. The angle 94 is even more preferred to be about 23 to 70degrees. The angle 94 allows gravity to act upon the rider so that therider hydroplanes upon the liquid flowing on top of the surface member40. It should be appreciated that the angle 94 can also be 0 degrees.The rider will travel down the device faster than the rate of theflowing liquid. This invention utilizes gravity as the force to enablethe rider to traverse the device on hydroplaning riding equipment anduses liquid upon the surface member 40 to enable that traversing to bevia hydroplaning.

The section between the steep incline of the device 10 and the catchmentarea is referred to as the transition section 94. The transition sectionhas a radius 96. The transition radius 96 is preferred to be about 14feet when a height 98 of the platform 19 is about 23 feet. The height 98is measured from about the vertical level of the bottom of the platformto the vertical level of the catchment area. Further preferred height 98to transition radius 96 are as follows (height−radius): about 3 to 7feet in height−about 7 foot radius; about 7 to 12 feet in height−about10 foot radius; about 12 to 20 feet in height−about 14 foot radius;about 21 to 60 feet in height−about 15 to 23 foot radius; and about 61to >100 plus feet in height−about 30% to 33% of height. The radius canbe designed to rider level of ability, strength, maneuvers/tricks to beperformed and hydroplane embodiment type or style. Decreasing the radiuswill exert more forces upon the rider.

Referring to FIGS. 14 and 16, exemplary embodiments of a jump module 11and a landing module 12 are shown. The jump module 11 and landing module12 are optional. These modules may also be used for drop-ins, slopes orjust ramps. The jump 11 includes a support structure 15′ and a surfacemember 40′. The support structure 15′ is similar in construction tosupport structure 15. The support structure 15′ includes braces andposts as in support structure 15, which are not shown. The supportmember 15′ has a height 21′, which is less than the height 21 of thesupport structure 15. It should be appreciated that the height of thejump compared to the ramp is adjusted according to user or riderpreference, maneuvers being performed by user or rider, location ofembodiment, ability of user or rider. Further, it should be appreciatedthe height of the jump compared to the height of the ramp can besufficient to allow for user or rider preference of achieving air,substantially elevated air, or “big air” in performing various actionextreme hydroplane skim maneuvers and which those skilled in the art candetermine. In various embodiments the ratio of jump height to landingmodule height is approximately jump height at sixty to eighty percent oframp height. In some embodiments jump height and ramp can be even inheight. Further, in various embodiments of smaller size, or when user orathlete is at a beginner level of ability, the landing module could belower in height than jump height. The support structure 15′ includesside panels 22′, only one is shown in FIG. 14, an equivalent side panelis on the opposing side.

The surface member 40′ of the jump 11 includes all the features of thesurface member 40 so as to provide a skim surface 43′ for which a liquid5 will flow over it enabling a rider 1 to skim on the liquid 5. In thepresent embodiment the surface member 40′ comprises a first layer orsupport layer, a second layer or barrier, and the third layer or skimsurface 43′, similar to surface member 40 as shown in FIGS. 3, 4 and 9A.The surface member 40′ has a width 51′. The width is defined by aplurality of side walls 44′. The plurality of side walls 44′ in thepresent embodiment are gunwales that define the boundary of the skimsurface or hydroplane region 40′. The surface member 40′ furtherincludes a length, which extends from where the surface member 40′ joinsthe top of the support structure 15′ to an end 59′ of the surface member40′. It should be appreciated that gunwales or liquid barrier partitionscan be placed in field surface area of embodiment to create a lane, run,or course while still providing for and enabling use of hydroplaneembodiment.

Additionally, the surface member 40′ further includes a plurality ofdispensing portions 45′ and a plurality of dispensing portions 46′.These features are similar to those of the surface member 40 discussedabove. It should be appreciated that dispensing portions 45 & 46 can bereduced or eliminated according to user or rider preference, type ofhydroplane sport discipline or activity, and maneuvers being performedby user or rider.

The plurality of dispensers 45′ of the surface member 40′, as shown inFIG. 15, includes a male end 49′, which is operably configured to engagethe female end 53 of the surface member 40, shown in FIG. 13, pluralityof dispensers 45 of the surface member 40. In the present embodiment,the male end 49′ is a bayonet type fitting. However, it should beappreciated that in other various exemplary embodiments, other sealablefittings common in the art may be used.

The fitting 49′ is inserted in to the end 53 to allow the fluidcommunication between the ramp 10 and the jump 11. The fitting 49′ isremoveably connected to the female end 53. The liquid circulation system80 supplies liquid 5 to the jump 11 creating a hydroplane environment onthe skim surface 43′ of the jump 11. It is contemplated by thisinvention, that the jump 11 and landing ramp 12 could each have anindependent liquid circulation member and not be connected to the liquidcirculation system 80 of the device 10. It should be appreciated thatjump 11 hydroplane module can also be used as ramp, landing ramp, orreduced quarterpipe for users or riders preference.

The landing module 12 is similar to the jump module 11 and the device10. It should be appreciated that landing module 12 can also be used asramp, jump, drop-in, according to user or rider preference, hydroplanecourse set-up, maneuvers being performed by user or rider, or anycombination thereof. Referring to FIG. 16, an exemplary embodiment ofthe landing module 12 is shown. The landing module 12 includes a supportstructure 15″ and a surface member 40″. The support structure 15″ issimilar in construction to support structure 15. The support structure15″ includes braces and posts as in support structure 15, which are notshown. The support member has a height 21″, which is preferably lessthan the height 21′ of the support structure 15′. Height of module 12when used as landing ramp hydroplane module can be lower, even, orhigher in elevation than jump 11 module depending on user or riderpreference, hydroplane sport discipline participating in, type ofmaneuvers being performed, ability of user or rider, and any combinationthereof. The height of the landing ramp module is calculated by thoseskilled in the art factoring in aspects previously disclosed, andhydroplane flow discussed herein. The support structure 15″ includesside panels 22″, only one is shown in FIG. 16, an equivalent side panelis on the opposing side.

The surface member 40″ of the landing module 12 includes all thefeatures of the surface member 40. In the present embodiment, as shownin FIG. 11, the surface member 40″ comprises, a third layer or skimsurface 43″ gunwales 44″ a plurality of dispensers 45″ and a pluralityof dispenser 46″. A first layer or support layer and a second layer orbarrier are also included, but not shown in the figures. The surfacemember 40″ has a width 51″. The width 51″ is defined by gunwales 44″.The gunwales 44″ define the boundary of the skim surface or hydroplaneregion 43″. The surface member 40″ further includes a length, whichextends from where the surface member 40″ joins the top of the supportstructure 15″ to an end 59″ of the surface member 40″. It should beappreciated gunwales 44″ located on upper portion of module 12 can beadjusted up or down to assist in control of liquid depth on hydroplanesurface.

Additionally the surface member 40″ also includes a plurality ofdispensing portions 45″, a plurality of dispensing portions 46″, and acatchment area 50″. These features are similar to those of the surfacemember 40 discussed above. It should be appreciated option of inventionmodule 12 can use liquid dispenser FIG. 10 across upper horizontalportion of embodiment module 12.

The landing module 12 also includes a plurality of drains 85″, liquidsupply lines 83″ and liquid return lines 84″. The supply lines 83″ arein fluid communication with the supply lines 83 of the device 10. Thedrains 85″ are disposed in the catchment area 50″ and are in fluidcommunication with the return lines 84″, which are themselves in fluidcommunication with the return lines 84 of the device 10. The catchmentarea 50″ has a length sufficient to disperse the energy of the rider. Itshould be appreciated that catchment area 50 can also be used inconjunction with other hydroplane modules. Further, it can beappreciated that catchment area 50 can also be used with opening on endin use with natural liquid supplies such as lake, river, ocean, stream,or reservoir or artificial liquid supplies such as pools, tanks, ponds,etc., and connect to other embodiments.

The liquid on the surface of devices 11 and 12 will vary depending uponthe intended use of the devices. More water will be need at the top orhigher portions of the devices if they are to be used as landings andless water at the top portions if they are to be used as jumps. Theupper flatter portions of these devices are preferred to have about 3 to5 inches of liquid on the surface. The transitional “upper” radius intoangled surface area liquid depth is preferred to be about 2 to 3 inches.The transitional “lower” radius into the horizontal (catchment) arealiquid depth is preferred to be about 2 inches. The horizontal catchmentarea liquid depth is preferred to be about 3 to 5 inches. The liquiddispenser and pump flow rates are adjusted according to achieve desiredliquid depths in the different sections. The transitional “upper” radiusand degree of angle surface area are designed to arch, (height,distance, and landing angle) of user when landing on embodiment from ajump. The alternative side drain system as disclosed below withreference to FIG. 20 may be utilized with these devises as well and evenat the upper sections.

Referring again to FIG. 16, the device 12 further includes a pluralityof module units or tiles 99″. The module units 99″ fit together to formthe surface of the surface member 40″. The module units 99″ have agenerally rectangular shape. It should be appreciated that the moduleunits in other exemplary embodiments have other various shapes and size.The module units preferably have a rigid supporting frame to support theliquid fluid skim surface. The supporting frame members are preferablyconstructed out of metal, wood or plastic. The supporting frames alsopreferably have attachment points to allow for connection to otheradjacent modular units using fasteners. The modular units can bearranged in a variety of ways and can be connected at ends, sides orboth depending on the desired application and arrangement. The modularunits preferably have attachment points for the plumbing system, seals,the liquid fluid barrier and the skim surface. The modular unitspreferably include plumbing fittings and valves, such as male and femaleconnections, that allow the plumbing system of each module unit to matewith the plumbing system of adjacent modules. The plumbing systems ofsome of the modules are connectable to the supply lines from theplumbing system of the entire device. The module units also preferablyinclude attachment points on the bottom surfaces for attaching themodules to the supporting structures. These types of module units ortiles can be utilized with any of the various action hydroplaningdevices made in accordance with the present invention.

Referring to FIG. 17, a box module 13 for the device 10 is shown. Thebox module 13 includes a support structure 15′″ and a surface member40′″. The support structure 15′″ includes similar features as thesupport structure 15 described above and for example includes braces16′″ and posts 17′″, a height 21′″ and a side member 22′″. It should beappreciated that the liquid dispensers 45′″ can, in other exemplaryembodiments be secured to side of box module 13 which still provides forliquid supplied to surface area 43′″. Being mounted on the side willallow a rider to hydroplane across the device without rubbing againstthe dispensers when the box has a narrow width and the rider is ridingwith skis or a board that is aligned perpendicular to the length of thedevice. The surface member 40′″ includes similar features as the supportstructure 40 described above and includes for example a skim surface43′″, a width 51′″ a length 52′″ and a plurality of dispensers 45′″. Thesurface member 40′″ may in other exemplary embodiment include surfacedispensers like the plurality of dispensers 46 of the device 10. Itshould be appreciated that box module 13 could feature singular orplurality of dispensers 46 if user or rider prefers. Further, it shouldbe appreciated that in other exemplary embodiments the drains 85′″ areoptional and the liquid may simple flow over the side of the device orflow over the sides and be caught in a trough, not shown, and returnedto the supply lines.

The box module 13 in the present embodiment has a generally rectangularshape and further includes a supply line 83′″ return lines 84′″ anddrains 85′″. The supply line 83′″ is in fluid communication with thesupply line 83 and the return line 84′″ is in fluid communication withthe return line 84 of the ramp 10.

The box module 13 can be used in various configurations and combinationswith other hydroplane embodiments according to hydroplane course set-up,user or rider preference, type of hydroplane sport discipline and whichis being performed by user or rider such as cascade stair-stepslopestyle, street, park, or any combination thereof. It should beappreciated that in one example, box module would be placed in catchmentarea 50 of device 10 described above. Further, it should be appreciatedin another example, box module 13 could be placed or featured inhorizontal cascade step of FIG. 21. Further, it should be appreciated inanother example box module 13 could be featured between jump module 11FIG. 10 and landing module 12 FIG. 12 according to user or riderpreference.

Further, skill devices that are common in snowboarding andskateboarding, such as for example, but not limited to a flat rails,boxes, rainbow rails and logslides, not shown, may be used inconjunction or integrated with the device 10 and the modules discussedabove.

FIG. 18 displays perspective view of a hydroplane extreme action sportdevice 100. The device 100 resembles in shape to what conventionally isknown as a half-pipe. The device 100 is an alternative embodiment ofaction hydroplaning device, made in accordance with the presentinvention. The device 100 is similar to the device 10 described above.The device 100 includes a support member 115, a surface member 140, aliquid circulation member 180, and a catchment area 150.

The support member 115 includes a plurality of braces 116, a pluralityof posts 117, a platform 119, a safety rail 120 and a height 121. Thesurface member 140 includes a first layer (not shown) a second orbarrier layer (not shown) and a third layer or skim surface 143.Additionally, the surface member 140 includes a plurality of dispensers145 and 146, rises 157 and a width 151, similar to the device 10. Theliquid circulation member 180 includes pumps 181, a liquid supply 182and various plumbing supply lines 183, plumbing return lines 184 and aplurality of drains 185, as in the device 10 described above. The device100 also includes a plurality of supply tubes 148 in fluid communicationbetween the supply lines 183 and the plurality of dispenser 146 as inthe device 10.

One difference in the device 100 from that of the device 10, forexample, is the support member 115 includes an opposing ramp to make upone side of the “half-pipe.” The opposing ramp has a height 123. Thedevice 100 also includes an additional platform 124 and an additionalsafety rail 125 for the opposing ramp, as shown in FIGS. 18 and 19.Further, the support member 115 is not configured in a ramp or slopeshape. Instead the support member 115 is a bowl shape, or manner whichsupports half-pipe embodiment commonly referred to as a half-pipedesign, having two opposing sides each in the shape of a partial archand having radii 126 and 127.

Referring to FIGS. 18 and 19, the height 121 and 123 of the half-pipedevice 100 are the same. However, it should be appreciated that in othervarious exemplary embodiments, the height 123 could be less than theheight 121, according to the preferences of the user 1. Additionally,the radii 126 and 127 in the present embodiment shown in FIG. 19 are thesame. It should be appreciated that in other various exemplaryembodiments, the radius 127 could be less than the radius 126 accordingto the preferences of the user.

The catchment area 150 in the device 100 provides a transition for therider from one side of the half-pipe to the other. Additionally, thecatchment area 150 includes the plurality of drains 185. The catchmentarea 150 also includes a length. In the present embodiment, the lengthof the catchment area 150 is shorter in length to allow for user tomaintain highest level and speed of kinetic energy so user canhydroplane across catchment area through radius transition area tovertical hydroplane surface area of embodiment so user can performvarious maneuvers. It should be appreciated that the catchment area canbe adjusted in shorter or longer lengths according to user or riderpreference, maneuvers being performed by user or rider, the combinationof other hydroplane modules being used if any, and ability of user orrider, or any combination thereof. However, it should be appreciatedthat in other various exemplary embodiments, the length of the catchmentarea could be lengthened or shortened, according to the preferences ofthe user. The height of the sides of the halfpipe must be of minimumheight to provide for sufficient performance of maneuvers and accordingto preference of user or rider, ability level, and height of drop-in.Further, it should be appreciated the height of the sides of thecatchment area can be adjusted in height manually or automatically tocontrol depth of liquid according to user preference.

The liquid 5 in use in the device 100 is water. The liquid circulationmember 180 provides flow rates of water 5 to provide a hydroplaneenvironment on the surface member 140. It is desired that at least onehalf inch of water be on the surface member 140. In the catchment area150, the water will collect and empty into the plurality of drains 185.The water in the catchment area 150 may have a level from one half inchto six inches depending on the preferences of the user. It should beappreciated that the level of water may vary according to conditionspreviously described above. Further, it should be appreciated that whenusing various hydroplane embodiments, water in catchment area or at endof embodiment can be deeper in level for example when using device 100in conjunction with natural river, lake, stream, or ocean, or in usewith artificial liquid pool or tank for example. The liquid flow rateand depths are calculated for both sides of the halfpipe. Each side isnot required to have the same flow rate and depths. If should beappreciated the side walls or gunwales of halfpipe in various halfpipeembodiments can be adjusted up or down to adjust liquid depth. Further,it should be appreciated that multiple plumbing system or the sameplumbing system may be utilized for both sides of the half-pipe.

FIG. 20 displays perspective view of a hydroplane extreme action sportdevice 200. The device 200 is an alternative embodiment of an actionhydroplaning device, made in accordance with the present invention. Thedevice 200 is a quarter pipe type ramp. The device 200 is similar to andincludes similar features as the devices 10 and 100 described above. Theshape of device 200 is the primary difference with devices 10 and 100.The device 200 includes a support member 215, a surface member 240, aliquid circulation member 280, and a catchment area 250. The device 200also includes a plurality of supply tubes (not shown) in fluidcommunication between the supply lines 283, the plurality of dispenser246 and coping dispenser 255 as in the device 10.

The support member 215 includes a plurality of braces 216, a pluralityof posts 217, a platform 219, a safety rail 220 and a height 221. Thesurface member 240 includes a first layer (not shown) a second orbarrier layer (not shown) and a third layer or skim surface 243.Additionally, the surface member 240 includes a plurality of dispensers245 and 246, rises 257 and a width 251, similar to the devices 10 and100. The liquid circulation member 280 includes a pump 281, a liquidsupply 282 and various plumbing supply lines 283, plumbing return lines284 and a plurality of drains 285, as in the devices 10 and 100described above. Like the device 100, the device 200 has a radius 226,as shown in FIG. 21. It should be appreciated when liquid supply isequal or higher in height to height of drains a pump 281 is used toreturn liquid to liquid supply source. It should be appreciated the sidewalls or gunwales in various quarterpipe embodiments can be adjusted upor down manually or automatically to adjust liquid depth according touser preference. Further, it should be appreciated device 200 can beused in conjunction with other embodiments, including device 10.Further, it should be appreciated device 10 could plumbing system couldalso supply device 200 with appropriate size pumps and plumbing systemknown to those skilled in the art. The quarterpipe device 200 ispreferably intended to be used with device 10 so that user or rider goesDOWN the drop-in device 10 travels across catchment area and then goesUP the quarterpipe performing a maneuver or track and then travels backdown into catchment area.

One difference in the device 200 from that of the device 100, is thedevice 200 only has one radii or arch.

The catchment area 250 in the device 200 provides a transition for therider from horizontal 250 to radius or vertical area back to thehorizontal 250. It should be appreciated in various uses of device 200catchment area 250 provides a transition for the rider from platform 219drop-in through radius to the horizontal 250. Additionally, thecatchment area 250 includes the plurality of drains 285. The catchmentarea 250 also includes a length. The length of the catchment area 250 issimilar to the length of the catchment area 150 in the device 100. Itshould be appreciated catchment area in some various uses of device 200could be more similar to the catchment area 50 in device 10. In thepresent embodiment, the length of the catchment area 250 is 8 to 12 feetdepending on the height of drop-in if embodiment is being used andability of user or rider. It is preferred that the minimum length of thecatchment area, from beginning of each transition radius, in allhalfpipe, quarterpipe, and half-frustum conical embodiments, be at least¼ the height of the drop-in, slope or ramp. However, it should beappreciated that in other various exemplary embodiments, the length ofthe catchment area could be lengthened or shortened, according to thepreferences of the user or rider, their ability, and the maneuvers beingperformed.

It is also contemplated by this invention the catchment area 250 couldinclude some of the features described above such as the jump 11 andlanding area 12 or the box 13. Further, conventional rails, logslides,boxes, spines, jumps and the like commonly extreme action sportsindustry, could also be used or deployed within the catchment area 250.The catchment area 252 includes drain troughs 286. The drain troughs 286are in fluid communication with the liquid return lines 284. The draintroughs 286 provide additional draining of the liquid from the catchmentarea 250 other than just the drains 285. The liquid will flow over theside of the device or flow over the sides and be caught in a trough, andreturned to the supply lines. The side of the drain trough can beadjusted manually or automatically. This type of drain trough can beused with any of the various devices made in accordance with the presentinvention.

The liquid 5 in use in the device 200 is preferably water. The liquidcirculation member 280 provides flow rates of water 5 to provide ahydroplane environment on the surface member 240. It is desired that atleast one half inch of water 5 be on the surface member 240. In thecatchment area 250, the water 5 will collect and empty into theplurality of drains 285. The water 5 in the catchment area 250 may havea level from one half inch to five inches depending on the preferencesof the user. It should be appreciated that other types of liquid andingredients mixed with water can be used in various uses of hydroplaneembodiment as previously described. Further, it should be appreciatedthat the side walls or gunwales of the catchment area in othervariations of embodiment 200 can be adjusted up or down to control depthof liquid.

FIGS. 22 and 23 display a hydroplane extreme action sport device 300.The device 300 is an alternative embodiment of an action hydroplanedevice, made in accordance with the present invention. The device 300 issimilar to the devices 10 and 100 described above. The device 300includes a support member 315, a surface member 340, and a liquidcirculation member 380. Further, it should be appreciated device 300 canalso feature a vertical side wall area from radius edge 355 increasingin vertical height to edge of platform 390 on either or both sides ofdevice 300. The vertical side wall height can be of various sizesdepending on preference of user, ability of user, size of embodiment,and type of maneuvers being performed. The vertical side wall area whenin use with device 300 embodiment is similar to vertical side walls ofskateboard halfpipe and snowboard or snow skiing halfpipe or superpipe.

The support member 315 includes a plurality of braces 316, a pluralityof posts 317, a ladder 318, a platform 319, a safety rail 320 and aheight 321. It should be appreciated that platform 19, (landing,scaffolding, etc.) and drop-in, start, transition slope or ramp can beon left side, right side, or both, straight, angled, or both relative tohalf-frustum conical embodiment displayed in FIGS. 22 and 23.

As opposed to the devices 10, 100 and 200, device 300 includes a secondplatform 390 is disposed along the length of the device 300. The secondplatform provides additional locations for riders to drop-in to the halffrustum conical device. The second platform 390 is preferred to bedisposed on both sides of the device 300. The platform 390 opposite fromthe side that the platform 19 is disposed along the entire length ofdevice 300 and the platform on same side (not shown) as platform 19 isdisposed along the length of device up to platform 19 drop-in, ramp,slope. It should be appreciated that either or both platforms are notrequired to be disposed along entire length of sides or for bothplatforms to be disposed at same time. Further, the second platformincludes at least one rounded gap or drop-in section 392. The gap 392provides a gentler or more transitioned entry for the rider into thehalf frustum conical device. It should be appreciated that the secondplatform and its features can be incorporated on either or both sides ofdevice 300 and in other action hydroplaning devices made in accordancewith the present invention, such as ramps, slopes, quarter-pipes,half-pipes and the like. The surface member 340 includes a first layer(not shown) a second or barrier layer (not shown) and a third layer orskim surface 343. Additionally, the surface member 340 includes aplurality of dispensers 345 and 346, coping dispensers 355, rises 357and a width 351, similar to the device 10. The liquid circulation member380 includes a pump 381, a liquid supply 382 and various plumbing supplylines 383, plumbing return lines 384 and a plurality of drains 385, asin the device 10 described above. The device 300 also includes aplurality of supply tube 383 in fluid communication between the supplylines 83 and the plurality of dispenser 346 as in the device 10.

The device 300 is also different from the previous devices 10, 100 and200 in that the device 300, for example, instead of a catchment area,the surface member 340 has a half-frustum conical portion 360, (half inthat the cone shape cut in half along the length of the cone). Thesurface member 340 includes a first width 361 and a second width 362.The first width 361 is larger than the second width 362. The reductionin width from the first width 361 to the second width 362 is preferredto be a linear reduction in width along the length of the device 300.Additionally, the half-frustum conical portion 360 includes a firstheight 363 and a second height 364. The first height 363 is higher thanthe second height 364. The reduction in height from the first height 363to the second height 364 is also preferred to be linear along the lengthof the device 300. It should be appreciated that in other exemplaryembodiments with a substantial half-frustum conical shape, the catchmentarea between the lower start of the transitional radius section on bothsides can be more horizontal or “flatter” than in the embodiment shown.It is preferred that with a flatter catchment area, the flatter areadecrease along the length of the device progressively from end 365 toend 366.

The surface member 340 is supported by the support member 315. Thesurface member 340 has a cone shape that has the point of the cone cutoff with the cone being bifurcated and laid on its side, as shown inFIG. 22. The first height 363 and first width 361 represent a largeropening or first end 365 of the cone and the second height 364 andsecond width 362 represent a smaller opening second end 366 of thefrustum conical portion 360. The first and second ends 365 and 366 eachinclude a gunwale 344. The first end 365 is at a higher elevation fromthe ground than the second end 366. This provides a natural gradient forthe liquid 5 to flow from the first end 365 to the second end 366. Theplurality of drains 385 are disposed in the half-frustum conical portion360 near the second 366. In the present embodiment, the difference inelevation of the first end 365 to the second end 366 is a minimum of 3″inches. However, it should be appreciated that in other variousexemplary embodiments, the difference in elevation of the first end tothe second end could be substantially different as when embodiment isused in natural or artificial mountain, and in park or resort usedepending on user or rider ability and maneuvers being performed by useror rider. For example, in use by professional user or rider, elevationchange could be 50 feet or greater over distance length of embodiment of200 feet. Further, it should be appreciated these ratios can be adjustedfor user or rider preference relative to ability and maneuvers beingperformed. It should be appreciated that other modules, including just amodule designed to just be a catchment area could be disposed adjacentthe second end 365 so that the riders have an area to dissipate anyremaining energy that have coming out of the device 300.

The liquid in use in the device 300 is preferred to be water. The liquidcirculation member 380 provides flow rates of water to provide ahydroplane environment on the surface member 340. It is desired that atleast one half inch of water 5 be on the surface member 340. In thehalf-frustum conical portion 360, the water will collect and empty intothe plurality of drains 185. It should be appreciated that water orliquid in various use of embodiment can flow into chute, trough, pool,tank, gutter, or flume at end edge 366 of half-frustum conical and influid communication with liquid supply.

The height 321 is higher than the first height 363. When in use, therider 1 will drop-in, start or begin from the second platform 390 orfrom the platform area 319, (which is at the height 321), and enter intothe half-frustum conical portion 360. The rider 1 would go from one sideto the other performing tricks and or stunts as the rider 1 progressedfrom the first end 365 to the second end 366. The shape of thehalf-frustum conical portion 360 utilizes gravity to provide the rider 1continuing momentum as the rider 1 moves along the length of the device300. A catchment area, not shown can selectively be placed at the end366 for the rider to finish and disembark the device 300. It should beappreciated that the second platform landing area may in other exemplaryembodiments be disposed on both sides of the half-frustum conicaldevice. The second platform 320 provides and area for spectators, forusers or riders, and for use when performing maneuvers such as“hand-plants. The second platform 320 can be duplicated on opposite sideof half-frustum conical. Further it should be appreciated the end ofradius 345 sides transition to vertical sections in various applicationsof half-frustum conical depending on user or rider preference, maneuversbeing performed, and ability of user or rider. Further, it should beappreciated that liquid dispensers and plumbing system is featured invarious regions of embodiment according to course layout & set-up, rider& user preference, ability, and maneuvers and tricks performed by useror rider. Further, it should be appreciated that in other exemplaryembodiments the radius area transitions to vertical in the half-frustumconical embodiment according to user preference.

FIGS. 24 and 25 represent exemplary embodiments of hydroplane actiondevices 400 and 500 made in accordance with the present invention. Thedevices 400 and 500 include combinations of the devices 10, 100 and 200described above. It should be appreciated that devices 400 and 500 canalso included modules 11, 12, and 13 in addition to 10, 100, and 200,and other combinations of modules such as rails, spines, or combinationsthereof skilled in the art, in according to various use preferences,hydroplane course run set-up, user or rider preference, ability, andmaneuvers performed by user or rider. As shown in FIG. 24, the device400 includes a configuration of a hydroplaning jump element and landingelement. This configuration is also known as “Big Air,” ramp-to-ramp,jump-to-ramp, module-to-module, device-to-device, or “gap” embodiments.As shown in FIG. 25, the device 500 includes a configuration of acombination of parts to mimic a downhill extreme snow ski/board park,rather with the hydroplaning environment as contemplated by the presentinvention. It should be appreciated that in other exemplary embodiments,the downhill feature can be deployed in a natural mountain or land-earthenvironment, an artificial mountain shape extending 360 degrees around,or any combination thereof. With such an arrangement, riders 1 would belifted up or walk up to the top and skim down in any directionencountering in various obstacles, jumps, rails and the like along theway. It should be appreciated that hydroplane extreme skim embodimentscan be used singularly, or plurality so as to configure multiple lanesor runs similar to a bowling alley, skateboard park, or snowboard & snowski resort, artificially made, naturally supported, or any combinationthereof. Each of embodiments shown in FIGS. 24 and 25 includes supportmembers, surface member and liquid circulation members in order toprovide the hydroplane environment created by this invention. It is anintention of this invention to combine the devices 10, 100, 200, 11, 12,13, 400 and 300 described above and employ them in a extreme actionsport park type setting, similar to a skateboard park or ski slopes oramusement parks. A user of the systems and devices of the presentinvention may combine and configure the above listed devices, or anyother devices utilizing the hydroplaning environment contemplatedherein, in any order or configuration desired to create the extremeaction hydroplane environment desired. It should be appreciated thathydroplane embodiment systems, modules, injection molded units,constructed or manufactured units, and mobile units, or any combinationthereof, can be employed in a extreme action sport park or resort typesetting, similar to skateboard parks, ski slopes, or amusement parks.Further, it should be appreciated that hydroplane embodiment systems canbe employed on various means of transportation such as trains, oceanliners, boats, aircraft, and floating structures, or any combinationthereof. Further, it should be appreciated that hydroplane embodimentsystems can be temporarily and permanently employed over existingmodules and devices of other similar action sports such as BMX andskateboard ramps, natural or artificial, bleachers in outdoor or indoorstadiums and arenas, and halfpipe, slopestyle, or mountains of snowboardand snow ski resorts. Further it should be appreciated hydroplaneembodiment can be employed over sufficient supportive modules anddevices in already existing amusement parks temporarily or permanentlyas preferred.

FIGS. 26-29 display a hydroplaning board B10 for use on the devices 10,100, 200 and 300 above, made in accordance with the present invention.The board B10 has a length B11, a thickness B12, a first end B13 and asecond end B14. Further, the board B10 includes a first or top surfaceB22, a second or bottom surface B23 and a first mounting area B15 and asecond mounting area B16 disposed on the top surface B22. It should beappreciated that hydroplaning board device can be constructed,manufactured, injection molded, or any combination thereof from multiplelayers of materials Further, it should be appreciated hydroplane boardcan be constructed by hand-laying materials in sandwich methodconstruction of multiple layers. Each mounting area B15 and B16 includea plurality of mounting orifices or mounting pads B17. The thickness B12of the board B10 is uniform along the length B11, with the exceptionthat in the mounting areas B15 and B16, the thickness B12 increases. Inthe present embodiment, the thickness B12 is preferred to be about ⅜ to⅝ inches, and in the mounting areas the thickness B12 is preferred to beabout ⅛ to ¼ inches. However, it should be appreciated that thethickness of the B12 can vary according to type of materials used, useror rider preference, maneuvers board is being used for, and ability ofrider or user board is made for. Further, it should be appreciated themounting areas can be flush with top surface of board, or thicker than ¼inch according to user or rider preference, maneuvers board is beingused for, ability of user or rider, and type and amount of materialsbeing used in construction or manufacturing of board. Further, it shouldbe appreciated hydroplane board is made from materials of wood,fiberglass, resin, glue, and composite materials. Further, it should beappreciated hydroplane board can be made from materials such as metal,carbon fiber, alloy, wood, fiberglass, plastics, P-tex, rubber,textiles, or any combination thereof.

At first glance the board B10 appears like a conventional snow board.Like conventional snow boards, the board B10 has the first and secondends B13 and B14 bowed up or have a radius in the direction from thebottom surface B23 towards the top surface B22.

The board B10 includes features that are not in conventional snow boardsor skate boards. One such feature is a plurality of grooves B18 near atleast one of the first and second ends B13 and B14 on the top surfaceB22, as shown in FIG. 22. It is preferred that the grooves be near bothends. The plurality of grooves B18 are disposed generallyperpendicularly to the length B11 of the board. It is preferred that thegrooves B18 be formed as part of the top surface B22. However it shouldbe appreciated that the grooves may be cut into the top surface B22. Thegrooves B18 increase the flexibility of the board B10 at the first andsecond ends B13 and B14. This increased flexibility at the ends enablesfor better hydroplaning performance on the hydroplane skim surfacescontemplated by the present invention and described above. The pluralityof grooves B18 each preferably has a preferred depth of ⅕ of a tenth ofthe thickness of the board to 3/10ths the thickness of the board. Itshould be appreciated that the length, depth, shape, and size of groovescan be changed and varied according to rider or user preference, abilityof rider or user, types of maneuvers being performed, type of hydroplanesport discipline participating in, and type of hydroplane module usedon, or any combination thereof.

Additionally, the board B10 includes a plurality of grooves B20 disposedon the bottom surface B23, as shown in FIGS. 28 and 29. The grooves B20are disposed generally parallel to the length B11 as shown in FIGS. 24and 25. It is preferred that the grooves B20 be formed as part of thebottom surface B23. However it should be appreciated that the groovesmay be cut into the bottom surface. The grooves B20 in this embodimentpreferably have a concaved shape. The board B10 is preferablyconstructed out of wood, fiberglass, and composite material. However, itshould be appreciated that in other various exemplary embodiments, theboard could be constructed out of other material common in the art, suchas fiberglass resins, wood, plastics, foam, rubber, metal, alloys,composites, carbon graphite, carbon fiber, Kevlar, P-Tex, etc. Theplurality of grooves B20 have a preferred depth of preference accordingto rider ability, preference, maneuvers performed, specific hydroplanesport discipline, and type of hydroplane module using. Initial depth is1/15^(th) to 1/5 ^(th) thickness of board.

Further, the board B10 includes a channel B21 disposed on the bottomsurface B23, as shown in FIG. 28. The channel B21 is preferably disposedalong the center of the board B10. The channel B21 has a depth B25. Inthe present embodiment the depth is preferably 1/15 ^(th) to 1/10 ^(th)to board thickness ratio. The channel B21 in this embodiment ispreferred to have a general concaved shape. It should be appreciatedthat the channel, tunnels or grooves in other embodiments may be made upof several concentric channels increasing in width and length. Further,the channel, tunnels or grooves may also be of a variety of differentshapes, such as concave, parabolic, or hyper-parabolic, and the edgesmay be convex, concave, radius, beveled, square, or any combinationthereof.

The channel B21 and the plurality of grooves B20 increase thehydroplaning capability of the board B10. The channels and groovesaffect and effect control, trackability, skimming/hydroplaning, andoverall performance of board. The more channels and grooves and thedeeper they are within the preferred range of depth increases the boardstability. It should be appreciated that in other exemplary embodimentsthe bottom surface of the board is free of channels and grooves.

The first and second mounting area B15 and B16 are disposed on the topsurface B22. It should be appreciated that mounting area can beinjection molded into board, fastened or attached to board usingadhesives or fasteners or combination thereof. The first mounting areaB15 is disposed from the first end B13 at about one third the length B1.The second mounting area B16 is disposed from the second end B14 atabout one third the length B11. It should be appreciated the secondmounting position can be mounted at end B14 according to userpreference. The distance between the mounting areas will also varyaccording to the rider performance ability, the type of maneuvers beingperformed, the size of the rider, the type of hydroplane embodimentboard being used on, and the particular hydroplane sport discipline. Themounting areas B15 and B16 provide a location to place a foot or attachbindings to the board B10 as will be discussed below. While the boardB10 is shown to include mounting area B15 and B16, in other exemplaryembodiments the mounting area could be optional, thus making the boardwhat is called a free foot board. It should also be appreciated that inother exemplary embodiments one of the binding mounting areas isdisposed adjacent or at the end of the board so the user's rear foot orboot can be placed closer to the rear of the board for additionalcontrol of the board.

The board B10 also has a width B26. The width B26 is not uniform alongthe length B1. The width B26 widens near the ends B13 and B14 creating aparabolic ends for the board B10. The length B11 and the width B26 havea ratio which varies according to rider or user performance, type ofmaneuvers being performed, type of hydroplane embodiment board beingused on, and the particular hydroplane sport discipline.

The board B10 is different from conventional boards in that theplurality of grooves B18 increases the flexibility of the board B10,whereas conventional boards desire stiffness. An additional differenceis the bottom shape radius and overall flexibility of board B10specifically compliments use with hydroplane embodiment devices in thisinvention. An additional difference is also the inclusion of theplurality of grooves B20 and the channel B21 on the bottom surface B23.These features keep the liquid 5 between the board B10 and the skimmingsurface to allow the rider 1 to hydroplane easier than conventionalskimming devices and boards. Conventional boards have a smooth bottomsurface for less friction on snow. Another key difference between theboard B10 and conventional boards is that the board B10 has non-sharpedges B24 as shown in FIG. 29. The edges B24 are preferred to have agenerally concaved shape along the length of the board. A concaved shapeproved for increased edge to edge control and turning. It should beappreciated the edges can have other shapes, such as rounded, beveled,radius, square, tapered, hyper-parabolic, or flat with a recessedsurface or any combination thereof. Having a hyper-parabolic or a flatwith a recessed surface shaped edge will provide for a morestraight-line tracking and stability, but generally a board with such anedge will not turn or “roll” from edge-to-edge as well as a board withconcaved shaped edges for example. The edging varies according to rideror user performance ability, type of maneuvers being performed, type ofhydroplane embodiment board being used on, and the particular hydroplanesport discipline. In stark contrast, conventional boards use the sharpedges to cut into the snow. The board B10 does not include the sharpedges as sharp edges may harm the skimming surface 43 or riders 1.

FIGS. 30 and 31 show a board B110. The board B110 is similar to theboard B10 and includes the features of the board B10. The board B110includes a length B111, width B126, a thickness B112, a first end B113and a second end B114. The board B110 further includes a first or topsurface B122 and a second or bottom surface B123.

The board B110 is different from the board B10 in that the board B110includes a plurality of grooves B120 disposed on the bottom surface B123as does the board B10; however, while some of the plurality of groovesB120 some are generally parallel to the length B110 as in the board B10,the plurality of grooves B120 closest to the edge have a parabolic cutin relation to the length B111. Additionally, the board B110 isdifferent from the board B10 in that the bottom surface B123 does notinclude a channel. It should be appreciated that grooves, channels,edges, bottom surface area, or any combination of, and can be of varioussize, shape, and length, in parabolic, hyper-parabolic, concave, convex,or any combination form thereof, according to rider or user performance,type of maneuvers being performed, type of hydroplane embodiment boardbeing used on, and the particular hydroplane sport discipline beingengaged in by the rider.

FIGS. 32 through 34 show a board B210. The board B210 is similar to theboard B10 and includes the features of the board B10. The board B210includes a length B211, width B226, a thickness B212, a first end B213and a second end B214. The board B210 further includes a first or topsurface B222 and a second or bottom surface B223. It should beappreciated that board can use multiple layers of materials in variouscombinations such as wood, fiberglass, plastic, composites, metal,carbon fiber, carbon graphite, Kevlar, graphite, and rubber.

The board B210 is different from the board B10 in that the bottomsurface B223 does not include a channel. It should be appreciated thatboard can include a channel according to rider or user preference. Anadditional difference in board B210 compared to board B10 is that theboard B210 includes edges B224 with channels B229 along the extremitiesor edge of the width B226. This additional feature increases the amountof liquid 5 getting under the board B210 to increase the hydroplaningeffect, control and tracking for the rider 1. This feature is contraryto conventional boards, which desire a sharp edge to allow the rider tocut into the snow.

While the embodiments discussed above include specific features of theboard B10, B110 and B210, it is contemplated by this invention that thefeatures may be combined or adjusted as desired by the rider 1. Forexample, the board B10 may have parabolic ends like board B110, or theboard B210 may have a channel on the bottom like the board B10.

FIGS. 35 through 38 show another exemplary embodiment of another boardB310 for using on the device 10. The board B310 is similar to aconventional wake board, ocean skim board, or flatland skim board usedin water sports on a lake or river. The board B310 specifically hasfeatures which compliment the use of with hydroplane embodiment devicesin this invention such as halfpipe, quarterpipe, big air, ramp-to-ramp,and half-frustum conical. This is contrary and is different fromconventional boards previously mentioned and used in other water sportswhich the intended use and design of those conventional boards is not tobe used with hydroplane embodiment devices in this invention. The boardB310 is similar to the board B10 and includes the features of the boardB10. The board B310 includes a length B311, width B326, a thicknessB312, a first end B313 and a second end B314. The board B310 furtherincludes a first or top surface B322 and a second or bottom surfaceB323. It should be appreciated that board can use multiple layers ofmaterials in various combinations such as wood, fiberglass, plastic,composites, metal, carbon fiber, carbon graphite, Kevlar, graphite, andrubber.

The board B310 also includes a plurality of grooves B318 disposed on thetop surface B322 and a plurality of grooves B320 disposed on the bottomsurface B323. The plurality of grooves B318 are generally perpendicularto the length B311, while the plurality of groove B320 are bothgenerally parallel and parabolic, concave, or hyper-parabolic inrelation to the length B311. The plurality of grooves B318 are contraryto conventional wake boards. The plurality of grooves B318 increase theflexibility of the board 310, while conventional wake board are designedfor stiffness.

The board B310 is different from the board B10 in that the shape of theboard B310 is elliptical. The ratio of the length to width variesaccording to rider or user performance ability, type of maneuvers beingperformed, type of hydroplane embodiment board being used on, and theparticular hydroplane sport discipline. Another difference in the boardor elliptical skim board B310 is that the board B310 does not includemounting area. Instead the board B310 has a first free foot area B330and a second free foot area B331. The first free foot area B330 isdisposed near the first end B313 and the second free foot area isdisposed near the second end B314. In the present embodiment the freefoot areas B330 and B331 are traction material common in the art gluedto the top surface B322. It should be appreciated that in other variousexemplary embodiments, the free foot area could be areas of the topsurface that have been roughed up by etching or laser cutting into thetop surface, as is common in the art. It should be appreciated tractionand gripping surface can be attached, fastened, or connected to boardusing adhesive, injection molding, fasteners, or any combinationthereof.

FIGS. 39 through 42 show another exemplary embodiment of another boardB410 for using on the device 10. The board B410 is similar to the boardB310 and includes the features of the board B310. The board B410includes a length B411, width B426, a thickness B412, a first end B413and a second end B414. The board B410 further includes a first or topsurface B422 and a second or bottom surface B423. The board B410specifically has features which compliment the use of with hydroplaneembodiment devices in this invention such as drop-in, halfpipe,quarterpipe, big air, ramp-to-ramp, and half-frustum conical. This iscontrary and is different from conventional boards previously mentionedand used in other water sports which the intended use and design ofthose conventional boards is not to be used with hydroplane embodimentdevices in this invention. It should be appreciated that board can usemultiple layers of materials in various combinations such as wood,fiberglass, plastic, composites, metal, carbon fiber, carbon graphite,Kevlar, graphite, and rubber.

The board B410 also includes a plurality of grooves B420 and a channelB421 disposed on the bottom surface B423. The channel B421, like in theboard B310 is generally parallel to the length B411. The channel B421 issimilar to the channel B21 in the board B10 and provides the same effectof increasing the hydroplaning, control and tracking on the skim surface43 of the device 10.

The board B410 is similar to the board B310 in that the shape of theboard B410 is elliptical. The ratio of the length to width is similar tothe boards discussed above. The board or elliptical skim board B410 isdifferent from the board B310 in that the board B410 includes mountingareas B415 and B416 disposed on the top surface B422. The first mountingarea B415 is disposed from the first end B413 at about one third thelength B411. The second mounting area B416 is preferably disposed fromthe second end B414 at about one third the length B411. The mountingareas B415 and B416 provide a location to attach bindings to the boardB410 as will be discussed below. The mounting area can be closer to endor at end according to user preference.

The board B410 is different from the board B310 in that the bottomsurface includes a channel B429 along the extremities or edges of thewidth B426. This additional feature increases the amount of liquid 5flowing under the board B410 to increase the hydroplaning, control andtracking effect for the rider. Additionally, the plurality of groovesB420 are all generally parallel to the length B411.

FIG. 43 presents an exemplary embodiment of a binding device BD10, madein accordance with the present invention. The binding device BD10 is foruse on the boards B10, B110, B210 and B410 to hold the boards B10, B110,B210 and B410 to the rider 1 when the rider is using the devices 10,100, 200, and 300 for extreme action sports in a hydroplane environment,as discussed above.

The binding device BD10 includes a sole portion BD12, two side portionsBD18, a heel portion BD14, and a calf portion BD16. The side portionsBD18 are attached to the sole portion BD12. The heel portion BD14 isattached to the side portions BD18. The calf portion BD16 is flexiblyattached to the sole and heel portions BD12 and BD14. The sole portionBD12 has a toe end BD30.

The binding device BD10 also includes a first adjustable securing memberor strap BD22, which is rotateably attached to the side portions BD18 bypivot connection BD23 and is disposed near the toe end BD30 of the soleportion BD12. A second adjustable securing member or strap BD24 isrotateably attached to the calf portion BD16 by pivot connection BD25near the heel portion BD14. The straps BD22 and BD24 each include apadding (not shown) to protect the rider from friction of binding deviceBD10. The padding is typically foam, but the padding could be of othermaterials common in the art.

The binding device BD10 includes a plurality of mounting fasteners BD20.The plurality of mounting fasteners BD20 allow the binding device BD10to be rotateably mounted to the boards B10, B110, B210 and B410. Thebinding device is preferably able to be rotated and secured in variouspositions or locations by means of slots and grooves in mounting plateof binding and with various fastening holes on boards. The bindingdevice BD1 in the present embodiment is constructed out of graphite; itshould be appreciated however, that in other various exemplaryembodiments, other materials common in the art may be used. To reduceweight of the binding device BD10, the side, heel and calf portionsincludes a plurality orifices BD26 of various sizes. The bindings madein accordance with this invention are made from lighter materials thanconventional bindings, contains drain holes to allow for less residenceand greater flow-through of liquid, and are lighter duty due to lessvelocity energy on impact in hydroplane sport as compared to snowboardbinding with snow. The bindings made in accordance with this inventionare preferably made plastic, metal, carbon fiber, alloys, composites,carbon fiber, and carbon graphite, or combinations thereof. Further, itshould be appreciated a boot made primarily of foam, neoprene, plastic,metal, or composites, and which stays mounted on board can also be usedwith this invention, which is similar to a wakeboard boot, but lighterin overall weight.

FIGS. 44 through 47 show a ski device SK10, made in accordance with thepresent invention for use on the devices 10, 100, 200 and 300 above. Theski device SK10 has a length SK11, a thickness SK12, a first end SK13and a second end SK14. Further, the ski device SK10B includes a first ortop surface SK22, a second middle core, and a bottom surface SK23 and afirst mounting area SK15 and a second mounting area SK16 disposed on thetop surface SK22. Each mounting area SK15 and SK16 include a pluralityof mounting orifices SK17. The thickness SK12 of the ski device SK10 isuniform along the length SK11, with the exception that in the mountingareas SK15 and SK16, the thickness SK12 increases. In the presentembodiment, the thickness SK12 is preferably about ½ to ⅝ inches, and inthe mounting areas the thickness SK12 is preferably about ⅛ to ¼ inches.It should be appreciated the values and ratios will change according torider or user preference, ability, and types of maneuvers beingperformed, and type of hydroplane module user or rider is on. Further,it should be appreciated that ratios will change depending on whichcombination of materials are used in multi-layer of materialconstruction and manufacturing of ski such as wood, foam, fiberglass,metal, composites, plastics, carbon fiber, and carbon graphite.

At first glance the ski device SK10 appears like a conventional snowski. Like conventional snow skis, the first end SK13 and the second endSK14 of the ski device SK10 is bowed upwards. The first end SK13includes a radius in the direction from the bottom surface SK23 towardsthe top surface SK22. The ski device is preferably made from amulti-layer construction.

The ski device SK10 includes features that are not in conventional snowor water skis. A difference is that the ski device SK10 includes aplurality of grooves SK18 disposed on the top surface SK22 toward thefirst and second ends SK13 and SK14. These plurality of grooves SK18 aredisposed generally perpendicularly to the length SK11 and increase theflexibility of the ski device SK10 at the first and second ends SK13 andSK14. This increased degree of flexibility at both ends is not desiredfor conventional snow and not at all for water skis. The ski devicediffers greatly from a conventional water ski in that the flexibility issimilar to a snow ski, is not rigid like a water ski, and is muchlighter in weight than a water ski. The swing weight of the ski in thisinvention is much lighter than water ski also. The ski device in thisinvention differs greatly from a conventional snow ski in that thecamber of the ski can be neutral, same, or opposite camber as comparedto camber of a snow ski. The bottom of ski device is intended forspecific use in hydroplane environment which differs greatly fromconventional snow ski which is intended specifically for gliding orsliding over snow or ice.

The plurality of grooves SK18 have a preferred depth of about 1/16^(th)to ⅛^(th) inch depending on rider or user preference, type of maneuversbeing performed, and types of hydroplane embodiment ski device is beingused on, as shown in FIG. 40. It should be appreciated that grooves,channels, edges, bottom surface area, or any combination of, and can beof various size, shape, and length, in parabolic, hyper-parabolic,concave, convex, or any combination form thereof, according to rider oruser performance ability, type of maneuvers being performed, type ofhydroplane embodiment ski device is being used on, and the particularhydroplane sport discipline participating in. Additionally, the skidevice SK10 includes a plurality of grooves SK20 disposed on the bottomsurface SK23. The grooves SK20 are preferably formed within the topsurface SK22. However, it should be appreciated that the grooves couldbe injection molded into top surface, or cut, or routed out of the topsurface. The grooves SK20 are disposed generally parallel to the lengthSK11 and preferably have a depth of about 1/10^(th) to ⅕^(th) thethickness of ski, as shown in FIGS. 41 and 43. It should be appreciatedthat grooves, channels, edges, bottom surface area, or any combinationof, and can be of various size, shape, and length, in parabolic,hyper-parabolic, concave, convex, beveled or any combination formthereof, according to rider or user performance, type of maneuvers beingperformed, type of hydroplane embodiment ski device is being used on,and the particular hydroplane sport discipline. Further, the ski deviceSK10 includes a channel SK21 disposed on the bottom surface SK23. Thechannel SK21 is positioned along the center of the ski device SK10 andhas a depth SK25. The channel SK21 and the plurality of grooves SK20increase the hydroplaning capability of the ski device SK10 on ahydroplaning surface, such as the skim surface 43 of the device 10described above. The depth of the channel is preferred to be about1/10^(th) to ⅙^(th) the thickness of ski device. The ski device SK10 ispreferably constructed from wood or foam core materials, with afiberglass or injection molded top, and a P-Tex or injection moldedcomposite bottom material. Further, it should be appreciated thatvarious other materials can be used in construction and manufacturing ofski device such as carbon fiber, carbon graphite, metal, plastic, andinjection molded composites. Further, it should be appreciated skidevice can be hand-made in layer form of multi-layer construction usingvarious materials as previously described. However, it should beappreciated that in other various exemplary embodiments, the board couldbe constructed out of other material common in the art, such asfiberglass resins, wood, plastics, composites, metals, etc.

The first and second mounting area SK15 and SK16 are disposed on the topsurface SK22 and about the center of the length SK11. It should beappreciated that distance of mounting area can vary according to size ofuser or rider, size of ski device, type of maneuvers ski is being usedfor, type of hydroplane sport discipline performing such as for example“big air”, street, cascade stair-step slopestyle, halfpipe, orquarterpipe. The mounting areas SK15 and SK16 provide a location toattach bindings to the ski device SK10 as will be discussed below.

The ski device SK10 also has a width SK26. The width SK26 is uniformalong the length SK11. The length SK11 and the width SK26 have a ratiovaries according to size of user or rider, size of ski device, type ofmaneuvers ski is being used for, type of hydroplane sport disciplineperforming such as for example “big air”, street, cascade stair-stepslopestyle, halfpipe, or quarterpipe.

The ski device SK10 is different from conventional skis in that theplurality of grooves SK18 increases the flexibility of the ski deviceSK10 at the ends, whereas conventional snow skis are generally designedwith increased stiffness towards the ends and whereas conventional waterskis are designed with stiffness throughout the length. The ski devicesof the present invention, differ greatly from a conventional water skiin that the flexibility of the skis is much great and not rigid like awater ski, and the skis of the present invention are much lighter inweight than a conventional water ski. The swing weight of the ski inthis invention is much lighter than water ski also. The ski device inthis invention differs greatly from a conventional snow ski in that thecamber of the ski can be neutral, same, or opposite camber as comparedto camber of a snow ski. The bottom of ski device is intended forspecific use in hydroplane environment which differs greatly fromconventional snow ski which is intended specifically for gliding orsliding over snow or ice. An additional difference is also the inclusionof the plurality of grooves SK20 and the channel SK21 on the bottomsurface SK23. These features keep the liquid 5 flowing between the skidevice SK10 and the skim surface 43 of device 10 to allow the rider 1 tohydroplane. These features also allow for greater rider 1 control of theski device SK10. Conventional skis have a smooth bottom surface for lessfriction and feature camber. The ski devices in this invention canfeature camber, no camber, or reverse camber, depending on user andrider preference, type of maneuvers ski is being used for, type ofhydroplane sport discipline performing such as for example “big air”,street, cascade stair-step slopestyle, halfpipe, or quarterpipe.Further, it should be appreciated the edges of snow skis are sharp withmetal edges to cut through snow and ice, whereas, the edges of skidevice in this invention are not sharp. The ski device SK10 includesedges SK24. The edges SK24 are generally flat. It should be appreciatedthe edges can have other shapes, such as concaved, rounded, beveled,radius, square, tapered, hyper-parabolic, or flat with a recessedsurface or any combination thereof. A concaved shape proved forincreased edge to edge control and turning. Having a hyper-parabolic ora flat with a recessed surface shaped edge will provide for a morestraight-line tracking and stability, but generally a board with such anedge will not turn or “roll” from edge-to-edge as well as a board withconcaved shaped edges for example.

FIGS. 48 through 51 show an exemplary embodiment of a ski SK110. The skiSK110 is similar to the ski device SK10 and includes the features of theski device SK10. The ski SK110 includes a length SK111, width SK126, athickness SK112, a first end SK113 and a second end SK114. The ski SK110further includes a first or top surface SK122 and a second or bottomsurface SK123. It should be appreciated ski device invention can beconstructed out of multiple layers of materials common in the art.

The ski SK110 is different from the ski device SK10 in that the widthSK126 is not uniform along the length SK111. The width SK126 is largernear the first and second ends SK113 and SK114. The ski SK110 is what iscalled a parabolic ski shape and is common in the art of skis.Additionally, the ski SK110 is different from the ski device SK10 inthat the bottom surface SK123 does not include a central channel.

FIGS. 52 through 55 show a ski SK210. The ski device SK210 is similar tothe ski device SK10 and includes the features of the ski device SK10.The ski SK210 includes a length SK211, width SK226 in a parabolic shape,a thickness SK212, a first end SK213 and a second end SK214, as well asedges SK224. The ski SK210 further includes a first or top surface SK222and a second or bottom surface SK223.

The ski device SK210 is similar to the ski device SK10 in that thebottom surface SK223 does include a channel SK221 with a depth of SK225.A difference in ski device SK210 compared to ski device SK10 is that theboard SK210 includes a plurality of grooves SK220 disposed within thechannel SK221. This additional feature increases the amount of liquid 5getting under the ski SK210 to increase the hydroplaning effect for therider. It should be appreciated that all ski devices in this inventioncan incorporate various features and aspects of ski devices in thisinvention in various combinations. Another difference is that the edgesSK224 of the ski device SK210 in this embodiment are generally concavedin shape.

The ski devices made in accordance with the present invention havesimilar middle and top features, and weight like a conventional snowski, bottom features similar to conventional water ski, and camber,bottom surface, edge, flexibility, performance, swing weight,hydroplaning, and control features unique to this ski device invention.This hydroplane module ski device invention could not be usedeffectively in snow skiing or water skiing sport activity. The preferredprimary, specific, intended purpose and use for the ski devices made inaccordance with this invention is for use with extreme hydroplaneenvironment provided for by action hydroplane devices and embodimentsand activities as described in this invention.

FIGS. 56 and 57 present an exemplary embodiment of a binding deviceBD110, made in accordance with the present invention. The binding deviceBD110 is for use on the ski devices SK10, SK110, and SK210 to hold thedevices SK10, SK110, and SK210 to the rider 1 when the rider 1 is usingthe devices 10, 100, 200, and 300 for extreme action sports in ahydroplane environment, as discussed above. The binding device BD110 issimilar to snow ski bindings in use on snow skis. The binding deviceBD110 does not include the feature of braking levers as conventionalbindings do in case the ski comes off the rider 1. It should beappreciated that binding device differs greatly from convention snow skibinding device in thickness of materials used in construction, gauge andtension of springs and release mechanisms, drain ports for fluiddisplacement, and overall weight of binding. Further, it should beappreciated the one of the greatest differences in binding devicecompared to conventional snow ski binding device relates to release andsecuring tension rates for safely securing and releasing boot of user orrider which in hydroplane environment skim sport and physics of energycompared to snow skiing down a mountain and the physics of energy inthat activity. Further, this ski device binding in this invention couldnot legally be used or mounted on snow skis or water skis and be legallyor safely used in sport of snow skiing or water skiing. The sole andintended purpose and function of this ski binding invention is for usewith extreme hydroplane skim skis use in the sport of extremehydroplaning action extreme sport and hydroplane embodiment modules asdescribed in this invention. Further, the binding device in thisinvention does not have any breaking device feature as is the case withconventional snow ski bindings.

The binding device BD1 includes a sole portion BD112 and a toe portionBD130. The toe portion BD130 includes a catch BD122, a body BD123, anadjustment member BD131 and an adjustment sight gauge BD127. The soleportion BD112 includes a catch BD124, two side portions BD118, and alock lever BD116. Both the sole portion BD112 and the toe portion BD130include a plurality of mounting fasteners BD120.

The adjustment member BD131 allows the rider 1 to adjust tension in thecatch BD122 according to the weight of the rider 1. The lock lever BD116is rotatably connected to the sole portion BD112, so that when not inuse the catch BD124 is in a first or unlocked position. After the rider1 place a foot with a proper boot, to be discussed below, into thebinding device BD110, the rider 1 presses the lock lever BD116 to asecond or locked position moving the catch BD124 tight against the footof the rider 1.

The binding device BD110 in the present embodiment is preferablyconstructed out of individually or in combination, metals, alloys,plastics, plastic composites and rubber. It should be appreciatedhowever, that in other various exemplary embodiments, other materialscommon in the art may be used.

It should be appreciated that the tension settings (or DIN settings) aredifferent for the extreme hydroplaning skim sports and activitiescontemplated by the present invention than they would be for snow skiingfor example. Hydroplane binding devices, made in accordance with thepresent invention cannot be utilized with other sports such as water orsnow skiing with the same DIN settings. It is important to note thatprofessional or commercial ski shop technician could not, under currentlaws, legally mount for liability reasons hydroplane binding device onsnow or water skis due to possible serious injury or death resultingfrom binding not “certified” for use in snow or water skiing sports. Theamount of torque required to release the boot is adjusted by turning ascrew on the toe and heel piece. This is called the DIN setting. Thecorrect DIN setting is based on height, weight, ski boot sole length,the skiing style of the skier (cautious, average, or aggressive) and,age (if the skier is 50 years old or older). The DIN is usually set by atechnician when skis are rented or bought. Adjusting a binding withoutthe proper test equipment can cause problems with release and may bedangerous to the skier. This is due to the fact that a binding with ahigher DIN setting than what is stated by DIN tension setting schedulecould keep the boot of user in the binding and not release as intended,therefore causing serious injury or death to user in the event of afall. Further, a DIN setting lower than DIN tension setting schedulecould cause boot of user to prematurely release under minimal tensiontherefore causing serious injury or death to user.

FIG. 58 is a side view of a boot device SB10 made in accordance with thepresent invention. The boot device SB10 is for use in binding deviceBD110. The boot device SB10 is similar in appearance and use as aconventional ski boot. The boot device SB10 comprises a shell memberthat includes a toe portion SB12, a heel portion SB14, two side portionsSB15, an ankle portion SB16, and a calf portion SB18. Connected to theside portions SB15 is a first adjustable strap SB20 and a secondadjustable strap SB22. The calf portion SB18 has a third adjustablestrap SB24 disposed on it. The adjustable straps SB20, SB22 and SB24 areas typical for conventional ski boots. The boot devices made inaccordance with the present invention are preferably made from plasticcomposites, neoprene, rubber, foam, and metal. Other materials common inthe art can be used such as carbon fiber, Kevlar, carbon graphite, andalloys, canvas, nylon, ballistic nylon.

The calf portion SB18 is rotatably connected to the ankle portion SB16by the pin SB36. The side portions SB15, the ankle portion SB16 and thecalf portion SB18 have a plurality of orifices SB32 disposed throughoutthe portions SB15, SB16 and SB18 to reduce weight and expedite theremoval of water. This is different from conventional ski boots, whichare solid and trying to keep warmth in. Additionally, the side portionsSB15 have an opening SB34 near the toe portion SB12. The boot deviceSB10 further includes a calf strap SB26 dispose on the calf portion SB18above the third strap SB24.

The boot device SB10 further includes an insert or first liner SB28 anda second liner SB30. The liners SB28 and SB30 provide protection to theleg of the rider 1 from the boot device SB10. The liners SB28 and SB30are a foam material common in the art. Alternatively, the liners couldbe of other materials common in the art such as for example neoprene,faux fur, canvas and nylon.

Additionally the boot device SB10 includes a first catch area SB38disposed on the toe portions SB12 and a second catch area SB36 disposedon the sole portion SB14. The catch area SB38 is operably configured toengage the catch BD122 of the toe portion BD130 of the binding deviceBD110. The second catch area SB36 is operably configured to engage thecatch BD124 of the sole portion BD112 of the binding device BD110.Hydroplaning boot devices made in accordance with the present inventionare different from conventional snowboarding boots in that they arelighter in weight, easier to walk in due to flexibility in heal, overallflexibility due to softer overall shell design and further they includenumerous orifices to expedite removal of liquid. Further, it should beappreciated that the boot in this invention could be made of variousmaterials and constructed in a manner manually, injection molded, or acombination thereof which allows for boot to be temporarily orpermanently mounted to the ski or board device in this invention.

FIG. 59 is a side view of a boot device SB110 made in accordance withthe present invention. The boot device SB110 is for use in bindingdevice BD10. The boot device SB110 includes a toe portion SB112, a heelportion SB114, two side portions SB115, an ankle portion SB116, and acalf portion SB118. Connected to the side portions SB115 is a firstadjustable strap SB120 and a second adjustable strap SB122. The calfportion SB118 has a third adjustable strap SB124 disposed on it. Theadjustable straps SB120, SB122 and SB124 in the present embodiment usehook and loop fasteners, however it should be appreciated that in othervarious exemplary embodiments, other adjustable straps common in the artmay be employed. The boot devices made in accordance with the presentinvention are preferably made from Plastic composites, neoprene, rubber,foam, and metal, either individually or in combination. Other materialscommon in the art can be used such as carbon fiber, Kevlar, carbongraphite, and alloys, canvas, nylon, ballistic nylon.

The calf portion SB118 is connected to the ankle portion SB116. The sideportions SB115, the ankle portion SB116 and the calf portion SB118 havea plurality of orifices SB132 disposed throughout the portions SB115,SB116 and SB118 to reduce weight and expedite the removal of water. Theboot device SB110 further includes a calf strap SB126 dispose on thecalf portion SB118 above the third strap SB124.

The boot device SB110 further includes a liner SB128. The liner SB128provides protection to the leg of the rider 1 from the boot deviceSB110. The liner SB128 is a foam material common in the art.Alternatively, the liner could be of other materials common in the artsuch as for example neoprene. In some variations of invention ski bootmodels, inner boot is made similar to water sock or water sport shoe andas such, can be removed from boot shell and used for casual walking inon land or in water comfortably and safely.

FIG. 60 is a perspective view of a pole device P10, made in accordancewith the present invention. The pole or balance pole device P10 includesa pole member P12 having a first end P14 and a second end P16, whereinthe first end P14 and the second end P16 define a length P18. A handleP20 is disposed at the first end P14. The handle includes a strap P22,which is optional. Disposed at the second end P16 is a contact memberP24.

In the present embodiment the pole member P12 is constructed out ofmaterials common in the art of make ski poles. Further, hydroplaneextreme skim ski pole can be made out of injection molded composites,carbon fiber, fiberglass, alloys, and other materials common in the art.The rider 1 uses the pole device P10, as desired, when using thehydroplane extreme sport device 10 to aid in maintaining balance, as aconventional ski pole would be used. The length P18 in the presentembodiment is preferred to be about 40 inches. However, it should beappreciated that in other embodiments the length may be longer orshorter as determined by the rider 1 preferences and size, as well astricks and maneuvers to be performed, the type of hydroplane eventparticipating in such as “big air”, quarterpipe, halfpipe, or cascadestair-step slopestyle.

The contact member P24 in the present embodiment has a concave shape, inthat the contact member P24 cups in the direction from the second endP16 towards the first end P14. The contact member is preferably madefrom a rubber composite. However, it could also be made from rubber,plastics, neoprene or other composites. The contact member P24, when inuse comes in contact with the skim surface 43 of the device 10. Thecontact member P24 is constructed of a rubber material so that the skimsurface 43 is not damaged by the balance pole P10. The pole member P12,while in the present embodiment does not extend beyond the contactmember P24, it should be appreciated that in other various exemplaryembodiments, the pole member may extend beyond the contact member.

The present invention further relates to an activity of water skimmingin an extreme manner, either professionally or as an amateur, using thedevices described above. The rider 1 would use the equipment describedabove on one of or a combination of the devices described above toperform tricks, maneuvers, and athletic abilities such as but notlimited to 1080 degree spins, flips, twists, toe-grabs, etc. Theactivity of water skimming could be perform indoors or outdoors andeither publicly before an audience or privately. The water skimmingactivity could also be judged, wherein the rider 1 earns points or otherawards based on factors such as speed, time, proficiency of performance,degree of difficulty, artistic style and amplitude.

The water skimming activity can be a single event or multiple eventswhere the rider 1 score is accumulated. Further the water skimmingactivity can be operated as a team sport wherein each individual on theteam earns points and the total is the team score.

Still further the water skimming activity can be established as a sportthat includes teams with roosters, schedule of competition, a governingbody and regulated rules to compete by wherein all competition isperformed on the hydroplane environment described herein.

The present invention includes the method steps for the activity ofwater skimming comprising the acquiring a hydroplane environment device;acquiring equipment specifically for use on the hydroplane environment;fitting a user with the equipment; acquiring judges to judge theperformance of the user 1; hydroplaning down the hydroplane environmenton the equipment by user 1 and the user 1 performing athletic maneuverwhile hydroplaning down the hydroplane environment; receiving a scorefrom the judges based on the performance of the athletic maneuvers bythe user 1.

Example Action Hydroplane Gravity System and Calculations

Part 1: Wide Start/Drop-in Ramp/Slope Dimensions for Ramp Similar toFIG. 1:

-   -   A. Width: 10 ft.    -   B. Height: 23 ft. (measured from horizontal/catchment surface        vertical to beginning 3′ radius to platform)    -   C. Drop-in/Start Platform Angle: 7 degrees (40 sq. ft.)    -   D. Drop-in/Start Radius: 3′ ft. (4.75 Lineal Ft.×10 ft.=47.5 sq.        ft.)    -   E. Ramp/Slope Angle: 70 degrees (12 L.F.×10 ft.=120 sq. ft.)    -   F. Transition Radius: 14 ft. (Approx. 18 L.F.×10 ft.=180 sq.        ft.)    -   G. Catchment Length: 45 ft. (45 L.F.×10 ft.=450 sq. ft.)

Part 2: Plumbing System:

-   -   A. Minimum of one Supply Line: 3″ in. diameter    -   B. Return Lines: Qty. 4=3″ in. diameter    -   C. Liquid Supply Pump Size: 67,200 GPH or 1120 GPM    -   D. Coping Liquid Dispenser: 3″ line×10 L.F. (approx. 9    -   E. Drains: Qty. 8-12=3″ in. (depending on desired range of        liquid depth adjustment; see “Part 3, B-4: a., b., & c. below).    -   F. Optional Side Liquid Dispensers: (To increase amount of        liquid on surface area as user prefers).    -   G. Optional Surface Liquid Dispensers: (To increase amount of        liquid on surface area as user prefers).

Part 3: Hydroplane Environment Calculations:

A. Weir or flow Rates:

-   -   1. 900 Gallons Per Hour (GPH) or 15 Gallons Per Minute (GPM) for        0.5″ in. water liquid depth        -   2. 2400 GPH or 40 GPM for 1″ in. water liquid depth        -   3. 4500 GPH or 75 GPM for 1.5″ in. water liquid depth        -   4. 6720 GPH or 112 GPM for 2″ in. water liquid depth

B. Preferred Liquid Depth Levels:

-   -   1. Ramp/Slope Angle: 1″ in. depth,        -   a. Liquid volume amount: 2400 GPH or 40 GPM×10 ft.=24,000            GPH or 400 GPM.        -   b. The 24,000 GPH amount of liquid is supplied through            liquid dispenser coping located at top of drop-in/start            platform.    -   2. Transition Radius: 1.5″ in. (Preferred range 1″-2″ in. depth        (can vary, see below);        -   a. Add 2100 GPH or 35 GPM (difference in weir rate between            1″ & 1.5″) to 2400 GPH or 35 GPM (amount of liquid already            supplied)=4500 GPH or 75 GPM (weir rate for 1.5 in. liquid            depth).        -   b. 4500 GPH×10 ft.=45,000 GPH or 750 GPM (liquid volume            needed at beginning of transition area to provide 1.5″ in.            liquid depth.)        -   c. The 45,000 GPH amount of liquid is supplied through            liquid dispensers on sides and transitional surface area or            combination of both, with flow rate being controlled with            liquid dispenser controls.    -   3. Catchment: 2″ in. liquid depth.        -   a. Add 2220 GPH or 37 GPM (difference in weir rate between            1.5″ & 2″) to 4500 GPH or 75 GPM (amount of liquid already            supplied)=6720 GPH or 112 GPM (weir rate for 2″ in. liquid            depth).        -   b. 6720 GPH or 112 GPM×10 ft.=67,200 GPH or 1120 GPM (liquid            volume needed at beginning of horizontal catchment area to            provide 2 in. liquid depth.)        -   c. TOTAL=67,200 GPH or 1120 GPM Liquid Volume Pump Size            Needed    -   4. Catchment Depth Control Options:        -   a. OPTION A.—Each return line has one valve in line which            can be adjusted to affect liquid level in horizontal            catchment area. (i.e. close to create more “back-pressure”            which raises the level (i.e. increases depth) of liquid in            horizontal catchment area or open valve to reduce            “back-pressure”increasing drainage flow which reduces liquid            level (i.e. shallower depth) in horizontal catchment area).        -   b. OPTION B.—Side barrier (gunwales) are adjusted manually,            electronically (with motor), or hydraulically up and down            vertically to adjust depth of liquid in catchment area            according to preference. The liquid would drain over the top            edge of side barrier into trough (or catch basin, tank,            gutter, or chute) attached to return lines to liquid supply            source.        -   c. Attributes of liquid depth: (1″-2.5″ in.=more            velocity/less control for user performing air maneuvers over            jump or halfpipe, or quarterpipe; 3″-6″ in.=less            velocity/more control for user or rider to “pop” or “Ollie”            board or ski off of hydroplane surface into air for tricks &            maneuvers).

Part 3: Liquid Volume Calculations:

C. Cubic Feet of Liquid Needed to Supply Preferred Depths at VariousArea of Embodiment

-   -   1. Drop-in/Start Platform, Radius Drop-In Transition, Angled        Ramp/Slope=207.5 sq. ft. (total area sq. ft.)×0.0834 (1″ depth        divided by 12)×7.5 (cu. Ft. factor)=129.79 gallons (rounded up        to 130 gal cu. ft.)    -   2. Transitional 14′ ft. radius section of embodiment FIG. 1=180        sq. ft. (area)×0.125 (1.5″ depth divided by 12)×7.5=168.75        (rounded up to 170 gal cu. ft.)    -   3. Catchment (area)=450 sq. ft. (area)×0.167 (2″ depth divided        by 12)×7.5=563.62 (rounded up to 564 gal cu. ft.)    -   4. Total gal. cu. ft.=864    -   5. Multiply 864×3 (“rule of thumb” factor for amount of liquid        supply with short supply & return lines, which is adjusted up or        down according to volume of liquid in plumbing system, which one        skilled in the art can calculate)=2,592 gallons of water liquid        needed to supply plumbing system in this example. Can be        adjusted higher for preference.

Part 4: Summary:

A. Hydroplane Gravity Embodiment:

-   -   1. Establish hydroplane embodiment (i.e. embodiment module,        injection molded module, device, etc.)    -   2. Establish support for hydroplane embodiment surface (i.e.        injection molded module, structure, ground, scaffolding, etc.)    -   3. Implement plumbing system (as described) according to        hydroplane environment surface size, style, preferred liquid        depth, and maneuvers being performed using flow rates skilled in        the art.    -   4. Turn on pump(s).    -   5. Begin user or rider participation.

B. Additional Hydroplane Embodiments:

-   -   1. Hydroplane environment can be provided on other additional        environments according Part 4: A, 3.    -   2. Applicable to various hydroplane gravity module, structures,        or device embodiments in forms such as: drop-in/start        slope/ramp; quarterpipe, halfpipe, ramp-to-ramp (“big air”),        cascade/stair-step (“slopestyle”), jump, box, rail, bowl,        half-frustum conical, and half-frustum conical with horizontal        catchment area feature.    -   3. Hydroplane gravity environment is provided using hydroplane        embodiment module, device, and/or structure with hydroplane        gravity environment surface ranging from fifteen (15) degrees to        77 degrees when user is hydroplaning from gravity or human        energy (ie. traveling DOWN angle of embodiment). In shorter        distances, hydroplane surface degree angle can increase to 80        degrees.    -   4. Hydroplane gravity environment surface angle can increase to        90 degrees (vertical) when user or rider is        traveling/transitioning UP hydroplane surface area, for example,        when user or rider is using halfpipe, quarterpipe, or jump        embodiment to perform maneuvers and tricks.

While this invention has been described in conjunction with the specificembodiments outlined above, it is evident that many alternatives,modifications and variations will be apparent to those skilled in theart. Accordingly, the preferred embodiments of the invention, as setforth above, are intended to be illustrative, not limiting. Variouschanges may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of thisinvention.

1. A hydroplaning device for a rider on hydroplane equipment to performliquid sport athletic maneuvers, comprising: a support member having aheight relative to the ground and a slope; a surface member disposed onthe support member along the slope, wherein the surface member forms atleast an angled surface and a catchment area; a liquid circulationsystem, having a liquid source having a liquid, at least one feed lineand at least one return line, the liquid source being in fluidcommunication with the at least one feed line and the at least onereturn line being in fluid communication with at least one of the liquidsource and a disposal location; at least one liquid dispenser disposedadjacent to at least one of the support member and the surface member,the at least one liquid dispenser being in fluid communication with theat least one feed line; at least one drain disposed at least one ofadjacent to and within the catchment area of the surface member andbeing in fluid communication with the at least one return line; and,wherein when the device is in use the liquid from the liquid source willflow through the at least one feed line, out the at least one liquiddispenser, down the angled surface at a sufficient rate so as to createa hydroplane layer of liquid on the angled surface to the catchmentarea, through the at least one drain and to the at least one returnline, and wherein the rider while on the hydroplane equipment willhydroplane on the hydroplane layer as gravity pulls the rider down theangled surface.
 2. The hydroplaning device, as recited in claim 1,wherein the at least one liquid dispenser disperses the liquid throughthe surface member.
 3. The hydroplaning device, as recited in claim 1,wherein the liquid is water.
 4. The hydroplaning device, as recited inclaim 3, wherein the liquid circulation system maintains at least onehalf inch of water on the surface member.
 5. The hydroplaning device, asrecited in claim 1, wherein the angled surface of the surface memberincludes a plurality of raised dimples.
 6. The hydroplaning device, asrecited in claim 1, wherein the slope of the support member includes aconcave radius.
 7. The hydroplaning device, as recited in claim 1,wherein the support member is a downhill gradient of earth.
 8. Thehydroplaning device, as recited in claim 1, wherein the surface memberfurther includes a width, a first end and a second end and the at leastone dispenser is disposed adjacent the first end along the width.
 9. Thehydroplaning device, as recited in claim 1, wherein the surface memberfurther includes a length and the at least one dispensers is disposedalong a portion of the length.
 10. The hydroplaning device, as recitedin claim 1, wherein: the at least one dispenser is a plurality ofdispensers; and the surface member further includes a length and a widthand the plurality of dispensers are disposed along a portion of thelength and a portion the width.
 11. The hydroplaning device, as recitedin claim 1, wherein the at least one dispenser is disposed within thesurface member.
 12. The hydroplaning device, as recited in claim 1,wherein the surface member further includes a plurality of raised bumps.13. The hydroplaning device, as recited in claim 1, wherein the supportmember includes a wood frame construction.
 14. The hydroplaning device,as recited in claim 1, wherein the support member and the surface memberinclude a generally half-frustum conical shape upon which the hydroplanelayer of liquid is disposed.
 15. The hydroplaning device, as recited inclaim 1, further including a jump module and a landing module, whereinthe jump module includes a support member, a surface member and plumbingoperably configured to connect to the liquid circulation system; andwherein the landing module includes a landing support member, a surfacemember and plumbing operably configured to connect to the liquidcirculation system.
 16. The hydroplaning device, as recited in claim 1,wherein the liquid source includes a natural river.
 17. A device forcreating a hydroplane skim surface for allowing a rider to hydroplane onhydroplane equipment, comprising: a surface member having an anglerelative to the ground; at least one liquid dispenser adjacent on thesurface member; and a liquid feed being in fluid communication with theat least one liquid dispenser, wherein when the hydroplane surfacedevice is in use, liquid from the liquid feed will flow through the atleast one liquid dispenser, down the surface member at a sufficient rateso as to create a hydroplane layer of liquid on the surface member, andwherein the rider while on the hydroplane equipment will skim on thehydroplane layer as gravity pulls the rider down the surface member. 18.The device, as recited in claim 17, wherein the liquid is water.
 19. Thehydroplane device, as recited in claim 18, wherein the at least oneliquid dispenser when in use, maintains at least one half inch of liquidon the surface member.
 20. The device, as recited in claim 17, whereinthe surface member includes a plurality of raised dimples.
 21. Thedevice, as recited in claim 17, wherein the surface member furtherincludes a width, a first end and a second end and the at least oneliquid dispenser is disposed at the first end along the width.
 22. Thedevice, as recited in claim 17, wherein the surface member furtherincludes a length and the at least one liquid dispenser is disposedalong the length.
 23. The device, as recited in claim 17, wherein thesurface member further includes a length and a width and the at leastone liquid dispenser is a plurality of dispenser being disposed alongthe length and the width.
 24. The device, as recited in claim 17,wherein the at least one liquid dispenser is disposed within the surfacemember.
 25. The device, as recited in claim 23, wherein the at least oneliquid dispenser includes an adjustable flow rate nozzle.
 26. An extremeaction sport method comprising the steps: acquiring a hydroplaneenvironment device having at least and angled surface; flowing a liquidover the angled surface of the hydroplane environment device to create acontinuous hydroplane surface acquiring hydroplane sports equipment foruse on the hydroplane environment device; fitting a rider with thehydroplane sports equipment; and, disposing the rider at an elevatedportion of the angled surface of the hydroplane environment devices andallowing gravity to pull the rider down the hydroplane environmentdevice such that the rider hydroplanes on top of the continuoushydroplane surface with the hydroplane sports equipment.
 27. The extremeaction sport method, as recited in claim 26, wherein the hydroplaneenvironment comprises a surface member; a plurality of dispensersdisposed on the surface member; and a liquid circulation member in fluidcommunication with the plurality of dispensers.
 28. The extreme actionsport method, as recited in claim 26, wherein the hydroplane sportsequipment comprises a board member having a first end, a second enddefining a length, a thickness, a first surface and a second surface,wherein the first end and the second end have a bend in the directionfrom the second surface towards the first surface; a plurality ofgrooves disposed on the first surface, near the first end and generallyperpendicular to the length.